To determine the extent of a prolapse, a doctor examines the area while the person stands or squats and while the person strains. By feeling the anal sphincter with a gloved finger, a doctor often detects diminished muscle tone. A sigmoidoscopy and barium enema x-rays of the large intestine may reveal an underlying disease, such as disease in the nerves that supply the sphincter. Strapping the buttocks together between bowel movements usually helps the prolapse heal on its own. In adults, surgery is needed to correct the problem.
Surgery often cures procidentia.
During one kind of abdominal operation, the rectum is lifted, pulled back, and attached to the sacral bone. In another, a segment of the rectum is removed. After bowel movements, the anal area should be cleaned with absorbent cotton, which may be moistened with plain warm water. Frequent dusting with baby powder or cornstarch may combat moisture. Corticosteroid creams, antifungal creams such as miconazole, or soothing suppositories may be used.