Posterior Repair – Rectocele

A procedure to fix the problem of rectocele, a herniation of the front wall of the rectum into the back wall of the vagina

A posterior repair is a procedure offered to tighten the back (posterior) walls of the vagina. A rectocele is a type of pelvic organ prolapse where the rectum drops out of its normal position and bulges into the back of the vagina. The bulge can cause the back wall of the vagina can start to sag and may result in bowel dysfunction. Risk factors include childbirth, aging, chronic constipation, or menopause.

Rectocele Symptoms

Not all women will experience symptoms or signs of posterior vaginal prolapse, but those who do may experience:

  • Difficulty having a bowel movement
  • A soft bulge of tissue in your vagina that might protrude through the vaginal opening
  • Sensation of rectal pressures
  • Pain with sexual intercourse
  • A feeling that the rectum has not completely emptied after a bowel movement

It is common for women with posterior vaginal prolapse to also experience prolapse of other pelvic organs.

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Posterior Repair Procedure

Rectocele repair surgeries are typically performed through the vagina, but the approach taken will depend on the severity of the rectocele. This surgery pulls together the stretched tissue around the prolapse, while also strengthen the vagina wall to prevent prolapse from recurring.

What to Expect After Surgery

You can expect to stay in the hospital for up to two days after the procedure and return to normal activities in about six weeks. Normal bowel function returns within two to four weeks, and it’s important to avoid constipation. Adding sources of fiber and drinking six to eight glasses of water a day will help with constipation. Most women can return to sexual intercourse in about six weeks.

Help is Available

Our double board-certified physicians are experts in treating the entire pelvic floor, not just one area of the body, so now you only have to see one doctor to address all of your pelvic floor problems. Call us today at 770.721.6060 or request an appointment online.

Why Choose Vaginal Health Center?

Our surgeons are both Urogynecologists and OB/GYNs and are uniquely qualified in female vaginal anatomy.

Unmatched Experience

  • Our surgeons are practicing OB/GYNs and have each delivered thousands of babies. With their training and years of experience, they have a further and complete understanding of a woman’s anatomy and the changes that occur after childbirth.

  • Our surgeons have over 70 years combined experience with a focus on women’s pelvic health.

  • Our surgeons have many more years of training specifically on the female pelvic anatomy than a typical Plastic Surgeon, general Gynecologist or standard Urogynecologist.

  • Your vaginal surgery results are only as good as your surgeon’s experience and skills.