Enterocele

Enterocele
Synonyms	Vaginal vault hernia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pelvic pressure, lower back pain, dyspareunia
Complications	Bowel obstruction, urinary incontinence
Onset	Often post-hysterectomy
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Weakening of pelvic support structures
Risks	Childbirth, obesity, chronic cough, constipation
Diagnosis	Pelvic examination, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	Rectocele, cystocele, uterine prolapse
Prevention	Pelvic floor exercises, weight management
Treatment	Pessary, surgery
Medication	None specific
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Common in postmenopausal women
Deaths	N/A

Enterocele is a medical condition characterized by the herniation of the small intestine and peritoneum into the vaginal canal. This condition is often associated with pelvic organ prolapse and can cause symptoms such as pelvic pressure, lower back pain, and a sensation of bulging in the vagina.

Causes

The primary cause of an enterocele is weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the uterus, bladder, and rectum. This weakening can occur due to a variety of factors, including age, obesity, pregnancy, childbirth, hysterectomy, and menopause.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an enterocele can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some women may not experience any symptoms, while others may experience:

• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the pelvic area
• Lower back pain that worsens as the day goes on
• A bulge of tissue protruding from the vagina
• Difficulty with bowel movements
• Sexual difficulties

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an enterocele typically involves a physical examination, during which a healthcare provider may ask the patient to strain or cough to check for protrusion of the vaginal wall. Additional tests may include a pelvic ultrasound, MRI, or defecography.

Treatment

Treatment for an enterocele may involve conservative measures such as pelvic floor exercises or pessary use, or surgical interventions such as vaginal surgery, abdominal surgery, or laparoscopic surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the patient's overall health and preferences.

See also

• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Hernia
• Pelvic floor exercises
• Pessary