what is a rectocele?

I'm sorry to ask such a question but I feel like I'm not real sure what a rectocele is. I've read about different stage rectoceles and wonder what that means.

How does the doctor fix a rectocele? Is this a surgery that gets done thru the stomach?

Thanks, Josie

Hi Josie! A rectocele is just a place where the rectum is pushing in on the posterior (rear) wall of the vagina. The "stage" of the rectocele relates to how far it's pushing into the vagina. I had one and it was repaired at the time of my hyst, vaginally. The vagina was split along the weakened area and then re-sewn with reinforcing stitches. Scar tissue formed there and made the area more resistant to being pushed in again (hopefully!). It can also be repaired rectally but that's less common. I haven't heard of it being done abdominally.
Hope this helps!
s,
-Linda