What can be done to prevent the disease?

This condition may not be preventable. Using caution when doing heavy lifting may decrease the risk. Careful monitoring, and an episiotomy if necessary, may prevent rectocele during childbirth.

Kegel exercises may strengthen the wall supporting the vagina and rectum. A pessary may help keep a rectocele from becoming worse. This is a device that can be put into the vagina to hold the rectum in place.

Staying active and eating a healthy diet with fiber, fruits, and vegetables may decrease constipation.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Long-term effects depend on the severity of the condition. Rectocele may lead to constipation, hemorrhoids, a hole in part of the intestine, or hard stool that blocks the intestine. Embarrassment about leaking stool can cause stress. Other long-term effects will depend on the success of treatment.

What are the risks to others?

Rectocele is not contagious and poses no risk to others.