Rectoceles: What They Are, Why They Happen, and How to Actually Heal One

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: rectoceles. If you’ve been diagnosed with one, I know how scary and overwhelming it can feel. The heaviness, the discomfort, even the embarrassment of manually assisting bowel movements—it’s a lot. But here’s the truth: you’re not alone, and there’s a way to address this at its core so you can get back to living your life without restrictions.

What Is a Rectocele?

A rectocele is a form of pelvic organ prolapse. Essentially, it happens when the wall between the rectum and the vagina becomes weakened or compromised. This makes the rectum to bulge into the vaginal wall, creating that feeling of pressure or heaviness.

Women with rectoceles often describe symptoms like difficulty emptying their bowels, a sensation that something is “falling out,” or even needing to manually assist bowel movements by pressing on the vaginal wall. It’s not just uncomfortable—it’s frustrating and can feel isolating.

How Does a Rectocele Happen?

Here’s where things get interesting—and where we need to bust a common myth. Most women think a rectocele happens because their pelvic floor muscles got “loose.” But the reality? It’s often the opposite.

What actually happens is that the pelvic floor muscles start working overtime. Instead of functioning as part of a balanced system with the feet, hips, and core, they take on too much of the load. This overuse creates tension, which pulls on the internal pelvic fascia—the connective tissue between the vaginal wall and rectum. Over time, that tension weakens the fascia, leading to the prolapse.

So, it’s not about being “too loose.” It’s about imbalance. And that’s where the magic of the Refine Method comes in.

How the Refine Method Addresses Rectoceles

The Refine Method is all about addressing the root cause of your symptoms—not just managing them. Here’s how we do it:

1. Retraining the Feet, Hips, and Core
   Your pelvic floor doesn’t work in isolation. It’s part of a larger system that includes your feet, hips, and core. When we retrain these areas to work together, we take the pressure off the pelvic floor, reducing the tension that’s pulling on the fascia.

2. Releasing Tension in the Pelvic Floor
   Tight muscles aren’t supportive muscles. By teaching your pelvic floor to relax and lengthen, we create space for healing and restore proper function. This isn’t about doing endless Kegels—it’s about balance.

3. Building True Support
   Once we’ve reduced tension, we focus on re-educating the pelvic floor muscles to provide dynamic support. This means they can contract and relax as needed, without overcompensating or going into “protective mode.”

4. Addressing Bowel Mechanics
   We also look at how you’re using your body during bowel movements. Simple changes in posture, breathing, and even how you sit on the toilet can make a huge difference in reducing strain and supporting healing.

You Don’t Have to Live With This!

I know a rectocele can feel like a life sentence. The fear of worsening symptoms, the embarrassment of needing to assist bowel movements—it’s a lot to carry. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to live with this forever.

With the right approach, we can address the root cause of your symptoms, reduce the tension in your pelvic floor, and help you regain control. You deserve to feel confident, strong, and free to live your life without restrictions.

If this resonates with you, or if you’re ready to take the first step toward healing, I’d love to help. Let’s work together to create a plan that’s tailored to your needs and goals. You’ve got this—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Click here to request an appointment with Dr. Meag today.