What Causes Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse usually develops when the rectum loses the normal support that keeps it in place. Over time, the tissues, muscles, and ligaments that support the rectum can weaken, allowing the rectum to slip downward. In some patients, this leads to internal prolapse. In others, the rectal tissue may protrude through the anus.

Rectal prolapse often has more than one contributing cause. Rather than a single event, it is usually the result of long-term strain on the pelvic floor and rectal support structures.

What Causes Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse is most often related to weakening of the pelvic floor and rectal support tissues.

Common Contributing Causes

• Chronic constipation
• Repeated straining during bowel movements
• Pelvic floor weakness
• Aging and tissue weakening
• Prior childbirth in some patients
• Chronic diarrhea in some cases
• Neurologic disorders affecting muscle control
• Prior pelvic surgery in selected patients

In many adults, several of these factors are present at the same time.

Learn more:
👉 Rectal Prolapse

Can Chronic Constipation or Straining Lead to Rectal Prolapse?

Yes. Chronic constipation and repeated straining are among the most common contributing factors.

Why Straining Matters

• It increases pressure on the pelvic floor
• It repeatedly stresses the rectal support structures
• It may worsen descent of rectal tissue over time
• It can make mild prolapse become more noticeable

Patients with long-standing constipation, incomplete emptying, or obstructed bowel movements may be at higher risk.

Learn more:
👉 Constipation

Can Rectal Prolapse Happen After Childbirth?

Yes. Prior childbirth may contribute to pelvic floor injury or weakening in some patients.

How Childbirth May Contribute

• Stretching of pelvic floor tissues
• Injury to supportive muscles or nerves
• Increased long-term pelvic floor weakness

Childbirth is not the only cause, but it may be one of several contributing factors in women who later develop prolapse symptoms.

Is Rectal Prolapse More Common in Women?

Yes. Rectal prolapse is more commonly diagnosed in women, especially older women.

Possible reasons include:

• Pelvic floor changes related to childbirth
• Age-related weakening of supportive tissues
• Higher rates of associated pelvic floor disorders in some women

However, rectal prolapse can also occur in men and in younger patients.

Can Aging Increase the Risk?

Yes. Rectal prolapse becomes more common with age.

Age-Related Factors

• Loss of tissue strength
• Weakening of pelvic support structures
• Increased likelihood of chronic constipation
• Greater prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction

Aging alone does not always cause prolapse, but it can make the rectum more vulnerable when other risk factors are present.

Are There Other Medical Conditions That Can Contribute?

Yes. Some patients have additional conditions that may affect bowel function or pelvic floor support.

Examples may include:

• Neurologic disorders
• Connective tissue weakness
• Chronic bowel dysfunction
• Other pelvic floor disorders

These factors may influence how prolapse develops and how severe the symptoms become.

How Can You Help Prevent Rectal Prolapse From Getting Worse?

Although supportive care does not usually reverse full-thickness prolapse, it may help reduce worsening.

Helpful Preventive Measures

• Treat constipation early
• Avoid repeated straining
• Keep stools soft and easy to pass
• Stay well hydrated
• Follow bowel and pelvic floor recommendations from your doctor
• Seek evaluation if tissue starts protruding more often

These measures are especially important for patients with early symptoms or intermittent prolapse.

Learn more:
👉 Rectal Prolapse Treatment Without Surgery

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical evaluation if:

• Tissue is protruding from the anus
• You have recurrent bleeding or mucus drainage
• Constipation or incomplete emptying is worsening
• You have stool leakage or poor control of gas
• Symptoms are becoming more frequent or more severe

A colorectal specialist can confirm the diagnosis and determine whether conservative care, testing, or surgery may be appropriate.

Learn More About Rectal prolapse

You may also explore these guides:

• Rectal prolapse Overview
• Rectal prolapse Symptoms
• Rectal prolapse Procedures
• Rectal prolapse FAQ
• Rectal prolapse Images & Diagrams