A rectovaginal fistula is an abnormal and uncomfortable condition caused due to an unnatural connection between the rectum and vagina. This connection allows the stool and gas in the rectum to leak into the vagina resulting in physical discomfort, and emotional distress and in the majority of cases, can even damage the physical intimacy of the couple.
What causes Rectovaginal Fistula and how does it impact a woman’s health and what is it treatment options? Find out answers to these questions from the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri today:
Rectovaginal Fistula Symptoms- How does Rectovaginal Fistula impact woman?
The abnormal connection of the rectum and vagina impacts both the reproductive and execratory function of a woman making it an emotionally distressing condition. Some of the most common symptoms suffered by a woman with Rectovaginal Fistula include:
- Passing gas or stool from the vagina
- Smelly vaginal discharge
- Incontinence
- Trouble controlling bowel movements
- Pain during intercourse
- Repeated urinary and vaginal infections
- Pain in the perineum (area between vagina and anus) or even in the vagina
Rectovaginal Fistula can be an embarrassing condition for a woman that can impact her self-esteem of a woman when not treated. But what exactly causes this abnormal condition in a woman? The top gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri answers.
Rectovaginal Fistula Causes – Why does Rectovaginal Fistula happen?
Anyone can suffer from this condition because it has far too many causes. Some of the most common causes of Rectovaginal Fistula include:
- Trauma or tear of the perineum during childbirth
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- An infection or an injury/complication during childbirth
- Prior pelvic surgery complication
- Cancer in the pelvic area and radiation treatment that follows
In addition to the above certain cases anus and rectum infections, faecal impaction (stool stuck in the rectum), infected pouches in intestines, and sexual assault can also lead to Rectovaginal Fistula. So how is rectovaginal Fistula treated? Let us find out:
What is the treatment for Rectovaginal Fistula?
Surgery is recommended to get rid of the Rectovaginal Fistula. In case the condition triggers infection, the patient is also run through a course of antibiotics before the surgical procedure. “The type of surgery performed to treat Rectovaginal Fistula depends on the location and size of the Fistula”, says a gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri. Some of the common surgical procedures performed to treat Rectovaginal Fistula include simple fistulotomy, Flap Advancement, and a combination of fistulotomy and anal sphincter repair.
Who is at more risk of developing Rectovaginal Fistula?
Though Rectovaginal Fistula is caused by a variety of factors mentioned above not everyone develops it. Women with long and difficult labour, injured perineum, infections, cancer in the pelvic area, and pelvic surgery are at more risk of developing Rectovaginal Fistula.
If you are already experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above and are seeking treatment for Rectovaginal Fistula in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri is the best gynaecologist in Mumbai with an excellent track record in treating Rectovaginal Fistula. You can contact her here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/