Vaginal bulge

My symptoms started immediately after straining with constipation about four weeks ago.  I felt a bulge in my vagina, just above the opening which didn’t go away.  Other symptoms followed: an increased clear discharge and a constant feeling of pressure in my rectum.

The bulge in my vagina was most noticeable when my bowel was full and especially when I had just evacuated my bowels and I felt the need to put supporting pressure on my perennium/vagina when I did so.  I have no pain.  Just an uncomfortable feeling.

My GP thought I had a stage 1 prolapse and referred me to a consultant.  The consultant examined me but could find nothing wrong.

Now, four weeks later, The bulge is hardly noticeable, except when I have just evacuated my bowels, but the feeling of pressure in my rectum still persists and is uncomfortable.

I am waiting for further tests for a possible cyst or fibroids.  But although I am no doctor, I feel this is a problem with the wall of my vagina/rectum, especially as it happened so suddenly after straining.  

I would be grateful for any comments.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
Your history and symptoms are classic for a rectoceole or paravaginal defect.  I don't want to be too graphic, but if you were my patient, I would want to examine you both supine and standing.  I would also ask you to strain.  I would need to insert fingers in both the anus and vagina.
(with gloves of course, and not the same finger!)

I would strongly encourage you to see a reconstructive pelvic surgeon or urogynecologist who specializes in pelvic floor problems.

The good news is that this is a correctable (if you wish) problem and not dangerous to your health otherwise.

Good luck!
Dr B

[janey57]

I forgot to mention my age - 53 and the fact that I am still mensruating.

[janey57]

Thanks for that.  It's very reassuring.  My symptoms feel as though they are improving, particularly the vaginal bulge.  Is that possible?