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Rectovaginal Fistula: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Home Remedies

By on July 4, 2017

Rectovaginal Fistula

Have you heard the term rectovaginal fistula? This condition not only causes emotional discomfort, but also emotional distress. Let us learn about this disease in detail.

Rectovaginal Fistula

Rectovaginal Fistula

What is Rectovaginal Fistula

In rectovaginal fistula, an abnormal connection is formed between the rectum and vagina causing the bowel contents such as stool or gas to pass through the vagina.

What is Rectovaginal Fistula

What is Rectovaginal Fistula

What are the Symptoms of Rectovaginal Fistula

The symptoms of rectovaginal fistula depend on the location and the size of the fistula. Symptoms usually include passing gas, pus or stool from the vagina, There is recurrent urinary tract infection causing burning while urinating and increased frequency and urgency to pass urine. There may be a pain in the vagina, vulva or between the anus and the vagina. There may be discharge from the vagina that is foul smelling. Pain during intercourse is also a common symptom.

Symptoms of Rectovaginal Fistula

Symptoms of Rectovaginal Fistula

It is always advised that if you experience the symptoms and signs of rectovaginal fistula better see a doctor immediately, as it may be a sign of some underlying serious health issue such as an abscess or even cancer.

What Causes a Rectovaginal Fistula

Usually, rectovaginal fistula results due to the injury caused during childbirth, radiotherapy as a part of the treatment of cancer of the pelvic area, following surgery of the rectum, anus, vagina or perineum, Crohn’s disease, infection of the anus or rectum, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis and fecal impaction.

What are the Complications of Rectovaginal Fistula

Rectovaginal fistula causes hygiene problems, fecal incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infection. Vaginal inflammation. Inflammation or anus or perineum. Rectovaginal fistula ay also results in infected fistula, which may prove to be a life-threatening disease.

How is Rectovaginal Fistula Diagnosed

Your doctor may perform some physical examination to locate the fistula. Also, the doctor will check for infection, abscess or tumor. The physical examination includes inspection of the anus, vagina, and perineum. Other tests suggested are contrast test, blue dye test, anorectal ultrasound, CT scan, MRI and anorectal manometry.

How is Rectovaginal Fistula Treated

To treat rectovaginal fistula your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and Infliximab to minimize inflammation. However, in most of the cases of rectovaginal fistula surgery is recommended.

How is Rectovaginal Fistula Treated

How is Rectovaginal Fistula Treated

  • Are there home remedies to treat rectovaginal fistula
  • Rectovaginal fistula cannot be cured by home remedies but symptoms such as recurrent UTI or pain and discomfort can be minimized.

Home remedies to minimize the Symptoms of Rectovaginal Fistula

Warm water wash

Make a habit to wash your genitals with warm water whenever you experience the passage of stool or vaginal discharge.

Warm water wash

Warm water wash

  • Better avoid perfumed soaps as they may cause irritation. Also, avoid tampons and pads that are perfumed.
  • Avoid vaginal douche as it removes the good bacteria of vaginal and natural vaginal excretions and makes you more prone to infection of intimate area.
  • Wear only cotton panties.
  • Keep your intimate area clean.
  • Do not rub intimate parts with a toilet paper.
  • Make changes in your diet. Add food rich in fiber such as green vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Keep yourself hydrated and drink lots of water.
  • Oregano oil has been found useful to treat rectovaginal fistula. Do consult your doctor to know how to use it.
    Hope you find this article helpful. If you have any query do let us know.

Dr. Ritu Kumari Gupta
Dr. Ritu Kumari Gupta:  Professionally a homeopathic doctor and a dietician Dr. Ritu Kumari Gupta is passionate about writing health and parenting blogs. She believes in holistic approach towards health and well being.
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