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Object in Rectum: Care Instructions

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Overview

An object in your rectum can cause pain, infection, bleeding, constipation, or leaking of stool. The rectum is a muscular tube about 5 inches long that is at the end of the large intestine (colon). The rectum connects 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.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call 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.
  • Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
    • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
    • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • 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, or cut you.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You cannot remove the object.
  • You have new or more blood in your stools.
  • You have a new or higher fever.
  • You have new or increasing pain in your rectum.
  • 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.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.