Pushing a Rectal Prolapse Into Place

Topic Overview

If you or your child has a rectal prolapse, you may be able to push the prolapse back into place as soon as it occurs. Your doctor will let you know if this is okay to do.

For a child

• Put on latex gloves, and put lubricating jelly on your finger.
• Gently push back any tissue that has come out of the anus.
• Apply an ice pack to help decrease swelling. Be sure to keep a damp cloth between your child's skin and the ice pack so that the cold doesn't damage the skin.

For yourself

• Put on latex gloves, and put lubricating jelly on your finger. Or get a soft, warm, wet cloth.
• Stand with your chest tucked as close to your thighs as you can.
• Gently push back any tissue that has come out of the anus.
• Apply an ice pack to help decrease swelling. Be sure to keep a damp cloth between your skin and the ice pack so that the cold doesn't damage the skin.

If the rectal tissue cannot be inserted easily into the anus, see your doctor.