How is rectal prolapse diagnosed?

The condition can be diagnosed by your doctor. To demonstrate the prolapse, patients may be asked to "strain" as if having a bowel movement or to sit on the commode and "strain" prior to examination.

For earlier stages, an x-ray examination may be needed for the diagnosis. X-ray pictures are taken while the patient is having a bowel movement. X-rays also help your doctor in deciding whether surgery is useful and which operation is suitable.

Anorectal manometry may also be used. This test measures the strength of the muscles of the anus.