May also be called: Rectal Procidentia Rectal prolapse is a condition in which part of the rectum slips down (prolapses) and protrudes through the anus. More to Know The rectum is the last part of the large intestine. It's where stool (poop) is stored until it leaves the body through the anus as a bowel movement. Certain conditions can cause the rectum to prolapse, which literally means "to fall out of place." When this happens, part of the rectum sticks out through the anus. There are two kinds of rectal prolapse: With mucosal prolapse, only the lining (mucosa) of the rectum protrudes through the anus. With complete prolapse, the actual wall of the rectum may protrude out as much as 2 inches (5 centimeters) or more, especially following a bowel movement. Rectal prolapse is usually painless, but it can cause mild discomfort, bleeding, and loss of bowel control. Causes of rectal prolapse include chronic constipation; diseases that cause diarrhea; infection with parasites; malnutrition; cystic fibrosis; and increased pressure in the abdomen from excessive vomiting, toilet training, straining during bowel movements, or prolonged coughing. Rectal prolapse most commonly affects young children and the elderly. Treatment usually requires a doctor to gently push the prolapsed rectum back into place, but in some cases, particularly with adults, surgery may be needed to correct the condition. Keep in Mind A rectal prolapse usually doesn't cause pain, and treating the cause usually cures the prolapse. About 90% of kids under 3 years old who get rectal prolapse can be treated without surgery, and in many of those cases a prolapse won't occur again. Surgery, when necessary, usually is successful. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Constipation If you aren't pooping like usual, you could be constipated. Read More Constipation Constipation is a very common problem among kids, and it usually occurs because a child's diet doesn't include enough fluids and fiber. In most cases, simple changes can help kids go. Read More Diarrhea Most kids battle diarrhea from time to time, so it's important to know what to do to relieve and even prevent it. Read More Rotavirus Rotavirus infection affects most kids and is one of the most common causes of diarrhea. A vaccine to prevent it is now recommended for all kids. Read More Your Digestive System The digestive system breaks down the food you eat. Learn how in this article for kids. Read More Constipation Constipation is a very common problem that usually happens because a person's diet doesn't include enough fluids and fiber. In most cases, making simple changes can help you feel better. Read More Digestive System The digestive process starts even before the first bite of food. Find out more about the digestive system and how our bodies break down and absorb the food we eat. Read More Digestive System Most people think digestion begins when you first put food in your mouth. But the digestive process actually starts even before the food hits your taste buds. Read More Diarrhea Nearly everybody gets diarrhea every once in a while, and it's usually caused by gastrointestinal infections. It's nothing to be embarrassed about. Read this article to learn more. Read More Word! Diarrhea If you've ever had a bad time in the bathroom, then you know what this is. Read More What Are Germs? You know they can hurt you, but what are these invisible creatures? Find out in this article for kids. Read More Germs: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, and Protozoa Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself. Read More Pinworm Infections Pinworm is an intestinal infection caused by tiny parasitic worms. But pinworms don't cause any harm (just itching), and it won't take long to get rid of them. Read More Pinworms It's gross to think about but did you know that tiny worm eggs could be under your fingernails? Learn more about how to protect yourself from getting pinworms. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.