What Should I Do If I Think I Have an Anal Prolapse?
Published: August 07, 2022 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
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The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
What should I do if I think I have anal prolapse?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
Unfortunately, we cannot diagnose here; however, you should always speak with your primary care physician or medical professional about any concerns you have about your body.
A prolapse is when part of the body slips out of its usual place. A rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum drops through the anus- two types of rectal prolapse are partial and complete rectal prolapse.
The symptoms of rectal prolapse include a reddish-colored mass that sticks out of the anus, constipation or diarrhea or both, feeling that the rectum is not empty after a bowel movement, passing blood and mucus from the rectum, and fecal incontinence.
If you feel you are experiencing prolapse, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure the problem does not worsen or require surgical treatment.
If you are having difficulty finding a medical provider and live in northern NJ you can search Find a doctor on atlantichealth.org or click here [Lower Gastrointestinal Surgery - ProviderMatch (atlantichealth.org) for a specialist in that area.