Managing Incontinence with a Rectal Prolapse

What is rectal prolapse—and why does it cause incontinence?

Let’s talk about something no one really wants to talk about, but more people deal with than you’d guess: rectal prolapse. It’s when part of the rectum slips outside the body, often during a bowel movement. Sometimes it slides back in on its own; other times it stays out. Either way, it can throw a wrench into your daily routine—especially when it leads to bowel incontinence.

When the rectum isn’t where it’s supposed to be, the muscles that usually help hold everything in just don’t work the way they used to. You might have trouble with accidental leaks, difficulty holding in gas, or a sudden urge to go that comes out of nowhere. That’s incontinence, and it’s one of the more frustrating symptoms of rectal prolapse.

The good news? You’ve got options. And no, you’re not stuck with this forever.

How does a rectal prolapse leads to bowel control issues?

The rectum plays a big role in storing and releasing stool, but it works hand-in-hand with the pelvic floor muscles and the anal sphincter. When rectal prolapse happens, these muscles stretch or weaken, and the nerves that send messages back and forth might get compressed or damaged too. This can make it harder to tell when you need to go, or harder to hold it in when you do.

Sometimes it’s more than just a bit of stool. You might also notice mucus discharge or a feeling of constant pressure. It's uncomfortable, and for a lot of folks, it feels a bit like losing control over your own body. That’s a heavy emotional lift, especially when it catches you off guard in public or interrupts sleep.

Can rectal prolapse be fixed, and will the incontinence go away?

Here’s the thing: rectal prolapse isn’t something that heals on its own. Some people start with lifestyle changes, others need surgical repair. The approach depends on the severity of the prolapse, how long it’s been going on, and how much it’s affecting your day-to-day life.

If your prolapse is mild, dietary changes and pelvic floor therapy may help manage both the prolapse and the leakage. But in many cases, surgery becomes the best option to truly correct the problem. Once the prolapse is fixed, bowel control often improves—though some people may still experience incontinence due to lingering nerve or muscle damage. It’s not a one-size-fits-all outcome, but there is real hope for improvement.

What helps manage rectal prolapse incontinence in daily life?

While you're weighing treatment options—or recovering after surgery—having the right support tools can make a world of difference. High-absorbency products like SPC incontinence supplies are a solid choice. They help you move through your day without constantly worrying about leaks or odors.

SPC reusable underwear feels like regular clothing but offers discreet absorbency, giving back a bit of normalcy when everything feels off. And at night, SPC quilted underpads (like the 30x36 size) help protect your mattress and let you sleep with peace of mind. They’re made with materials that absorb quickly and reduce leaks, especially helpful for caregivers managing overnight care.

SPC bladder control products are ideal if your incontinence includes urinary issues as well, which isn’t uncommon with rectal prolapse, since the pelvic floor supports both systems. Every product is tested for quality and designed with comfort in mind, so you’re not stuck choosing between protection and skin health.

Lifestyle tips to reduce symptoms and feel more in control

Let’s be real—there’s no magic switch to flip here. But small changes do add up.

Start with fiber. Adding more to your diet can help regulate your bowel movements, making them easier to pass and reducing the strain that can worsen prolapse. Drinking more water helps, too, especially if you’re also dealing with constipation.

Pelvic floor exercises can strengthen the muscles that support your rectum and improve sphincter control. You don’t have to figure it out alone—pelvic floor therapists are out there, and they know how to guide you through it step by step.

And don’t underestimate the power of timing. Going to the bathroom at the same times each day (rather than waiting until the urge hits) can train your body and reduce the chances of surprise leaks.

Caregivers: Here’s how you can help your loved one

If you’re helping a parent, partner, or patient manage rectal prolapse incontinence, your role is huge—and it can be overwhelming at times. Comfort, dignity, and hygiene are the top concerns, and SPC products are designed to make those easier to manage.

Think about it: a reusable, breathable undergarment that actually fits well and absorbs quickly can reduce laundry stress and give your loved one some independence back. Underpads protect furniture and beds without constant clean-up, and the materials used are tested to be safe on sensitive skin.

Caring for someone in this situation can be messy, frustrating, and emotional—but it can also be full of small victories. You’re not alone in this, and you don’t have to figure it out without support.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.