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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction01:29

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...
Diverticular Disease of the Colon01:27

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 6, 2026

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
07:41

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Published on: April 17, 2019

Obstructive defecation in middle-aged women.

Madhulika G Varma1, Stacey L Hart, Jeanette S Brown

  • 1Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 2330 Post St. Suite 260, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA. varmam@surgery.ucsf.edu

Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|March 15, 2008
PubMed
Summary

Obstructive defecation affects 12.3% of middle-aged women, particularly those with a history of pelvic floor surgery. Risk factors include irritable bowel syndrome and hysterectomy, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

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Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
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Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System

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Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
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Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
03:49

Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System

Published on: September 20, 2018

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Urogynecology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Obstructive defecation is a common cause of constipation, disproportionately affecting middle-aged women.
  • Limited population-based studies exist on its prevalence and risk factors in this demographic.
  • Understanding these factors is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of obstructive defecation in a diverse population of middle-aged women.
  • To identify demographic, medical, and surgical risk factors associated with obstructive defecation.
  • To inform clinical practice and public health initiatives.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of data from the Reproductive Risks for Incontinence Study at Kaiser, a cohort of 2,109 women aged 40-69.
  • Obstructive defecation defined by self-report of symptoms occurring at least weekly.
  • Multivariate logistic regression used to assess associations with risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Weekly obstructive defecation was reported by 12.3% of women.
  • Independent risk factors included irritable bowel syndrome, hysterectomy, unemployment, polypharmacy, pelvic organ prolapse, and incontinence surgery.
  • Women with a history of pelvic floor surgery had a nearly two-fold increased risk.

Conclusions:

  • Obstructive defecation is prevalent in middle-aged women, particularly those with prior pelvic floor condition treatments.
  • History of hysterectomy or pelvic floor surgery significantly increases risk.
  • Demographic factors, except employment status, were not significant predictors.