Rectovaginal fistula
Rectovaginal Fistula
Rectovaginal fistula (pronunciation: rek-toh-vaj-uh-nl fis-chuh-luh) is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal connection (fistula) between the rectum and the vagina.
Etymology
The term "Rectovaginal fistula" is derived from Latin, where "Recto" refers to the rectum, "vaginal" refers to the vagina, and "fistula" means an abnormal connection or passageway.
Definition
A Rectovaginal fistula is a medical condition where there is an abnormal connection between the lower portion of the large intestine — the rectum — and the vagina. Bowel contents can leak into the vagina, causing symptoms such as foul-smelling vaginal discharge and fecal incontinence.
Causes
Rectovaginal fistula can be caused by various conditions including childbirth, Crohn's disease, cancer, radiation therapy, and surgical complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a Rectovaginal fistula may include passage of gas, feces or pus from the vagina, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, recurrent vaginal or urinary tract infections, discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse, and irritation or pain in the vulva, vagina and the area between the vagina and anus (perineum).
Treatment
Treatment for Rectovaginal fistula often involves surgery to repair the fistula. The type of surgery will depend on the size, location and cause of the fistula. In some cases, non-surgical treatments may be used, such as medications for Crohn's disease.
Related Terms
- Fistula: An abnormal connection between two body parts.
- Rectum: The final section of the large intestine.
- Vagina: The female genital tract.
- Crohn's disease: A type of inflammatory bowel disease.
- Fecal incontinence: The inability to control bowel movements.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rectovaginal fistula
- Wikipedia's article - Rectovaginal fistula
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