Object in Rectum: Care Instructions

Overview

An object in your rectum can cause pain, infection, bleeding, constipation, or leaking of stool. The rectum is a muscular tube that connects the end of the colon to the anus, which is the opening where stool leaves the body.

Your rectum may feel tender or irritated after the object has been removed. It may hurt when you have to pass stool. You may also pass some blood with your stool until the area heals.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• If your doctor suggests it, sit in a few inches of warm water (sitz bath) 3 times a day and after bowel movements. The warm water helps with pain and itching.
• Add fiber like bran or psyllium to your diet to help prevent constipation. Other good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
• Don't put anything in your rectum that can break, leak, get stuck, or cut you.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or more blood in your stools.
• You have a new or higher fever.
• You have new or worse pain in your rectum.
• You are not able to pass stools.
• You have belly pain.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.