Small bowel prolapse (enterocele) occurs when muscles and tissues that hold the intestines (small bowel) in place inside the pelvic cavity weaken, causing the small bowel to descend and bulge into the vagina. Enterocele occurs when the intestines (small bowel) protrude through a fascial defect or weak tissues, typically at the apex (top) of the vagina. Women who’ve experienced birth trauma or had prolonged deliveries or forceps deliveries may have a higher risk of enterocele.

Understanding the Context

An enterocele (en-TUH-roh-seel) is when your small intestine moves downward. This makes your intestine push on the back wall of your vagina, making it bulge (see Figure 1). Enterocele, or small bowel prolapse, is a significant yet often under-discussed condition that can affect many individuals, particularly women. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life.

Key Insights

An enterocele happens when part of your small intestine falls down and bulges into your vagina. Weak or stretched muscles in the pelvis allow the intestine to prolapse (fall out of place). An enterocele (small bowel prolapse) occurs when the small bowel presses against and moves the upper wall of the vagina. Rectoceles and enteroceles may develop if the lower pelvic muscles become damaged by labor, childbirth, or a previous pelvic surgery or if the muscles are weakened by aging. An enterocele is a herniation of a peritoneum -lined sac containing small intestine through the pelvic floor, between the rectum and the vagina (in females).

Final Thoughts

[2][3][1] Enterocele is significantly more common in females, [4] especially after hysterectomy. An enterocele, also known as a small bowel prolapse, is a type of pelvic organ prolapse that occurs when the small intestine shifts from its normal position and pushes into the vaginal canal. Discover the symptoms, types, causes, and treatment options for enterocele. Learn how to identify and manage this pelvic health condition. An enterocele, or small bowel prolapse, is a type of pelvic organ prolapse. It occurs when the small intestine prolapses, or drops, causing a bulge in the vagina.