Frequently Asked Questions About Rectocele and FEMMEZE®
Living with a rectocele can make everyday activities uncomfortable. Many women experience difficulty emptying their bowels, pelvic pressure, or the need to manually support the vaginal wall during bowel movements. The good news is that surgery is not always the first or only option. Many patients benefit from conservative management under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
One option available for appropriate patients is the FEMMEZE® Rectocele Vaginal Trainer, available from CincyMed. It is designed to provide temporary support to the vaginal wall during bowel movements for women whose clinician recommends vaginal splinting.
What Is a Rectocele?
A rectocele, also known as a posterior vaginal wall prolapse, occurs when the tissue separating the rectum and vagina weakens, allowing the rectum to bulge into the vaginal wall. Common risk factors include childbirth, aging, menopause, chronic constipation, obesity, and repeated straining.
Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty with bowel movements
- Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
- Pelvic pressure or heaviness
- Vaginal bulging
- Chronic constipation
- Need for vaginal splinting
Can Rectocele Be Managed Without Surgery?
Yes. Many women with mild to moderate symptoms start with conservative treatment, including:
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Increased dietary fiber
- Adequate hydration
- Healthy bowel habits
- Avoiding excessive straining
- Vaginal support devices when recommended by a healthcare provider
Treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history, and clinical evaluation.
What Is the FEMMEZE® Rectocele Vaginal Trainer?
The FEMMEZE® Rectocele Vaginal Trainer is a reusable, single-patient device designed to support the vaginal wall during bowel movements. It provides a more hygienic alternative to manual vaginal splinting for women whose healthcare provider recommends this approach.
It is intended to help manage symptoms it is not a cure for rectocele. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or using a medical device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a rectocele heal on its own?
A rectocele usually does not heal on its own, but symptoms may improve with conservative management and lifestyle changes.
Is surgery always necessary?
No. Many women successfully manage symptoms with non-surgical treatments.
Can constipation make a rectocele worse?
Yes. Chronic constipation and repeated straining can increase pressure on the pelvic floor.
Who should use FEMMEZE®?
Women diagnosed with a rectocele who have been advised by their healthcare provider to use vaginal splinting may be suitable candidates.
Why Trust This Information?
This article is based on guidance from respected medical organizations and is intended to support, not replace, professional medical advice. For evidence-based information, refer to:
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
- MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine): https://medlineplus.gov/
- Office on Women's Health (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services): https://www.womenshealth.gov/
Learn More About FEMMEZE®
If your healthcare provider has recommended conservative management for rectocele-related bowel-emptying difficulties, explore the FEMMEZE® Rectocele Vaginal Trainer on the CincyMed website. You'll find product details, usage information, and additional educational resources to help you make informed decisions with your care team.