If you’ve been feeling a heaviness or bulging sensation, or struggling with bowel movements, you might have a rectocele. While this might sound alarming, don't freak out—it’s incredibly common, especially for women who have given birth. The great news? You don’t have to live with discomfort. With expert pelvic floor physical therapy, you can restore strength, improve symptoms, and get back to feeling like yourself. At Bonneville Pelvic Health, Dr. Bailee—a Board-Certified Women’s Health Physical Therapist—is here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is Rectocele?
A rectocele happens when the rectum pushes into the vaginal wall due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues. This can cause a noticeable bulge, a feeling of pressure, and sometimes difficulty with bowel movements. Many women describe the need to press on their perineal or vaginal area to fully empty their bowels, a technique known as “splinting” (see illustration below).
While rectocele can happen to anyone, it’s most common in women who have given birth vaginally. Pregnancy and delivery place significant stress on the pelvic floor, and over time, the supportive structures can weaken. Other contributing factors include chronic constipation, heavy lifting (particularly with poor form), abdominal obesity, and aging.

How Common Is Rectocele?
If you have rectocele, you’re far from alone. Research estimates that up to 40% of women experience some form of pelvic organ prolapse, and rectocele is one of the most frequent. Many women live with it unknowingly, chalking up symptoms to aging or post-childbirth changes. While rectocele isn’t dangerous, it can be frustrating—but the right treatment can make a world of difference.
Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Is the Best Solution
For many women, pelvic floor physical therapy is the most effective, non-invasive way to manage rectocele. At Bonneville Pelvic Health, Dr. Bailee specializes in restoring strength and function to the pelvic floor, helping women regain confidence and comfort.
Pelvic floor therapy includes:
Targeted Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor improves support for the rectum and vaginal walls, helping reduce bulging and discomfort.
Relaxation Techniques: An overactive pelvic floor can contribute to difficulty with bowel movements. Learning to coordinate these muscles can provide significant relief.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques can enhance muscle function, release tension, and reduce discomfort.
Bowel and Bladder Training: Small lifestyle and dietary tweaks can promote smoother bowel movements and prevent further pelvic floor strain.
Biofeedback and Neuromuscular Re-education: Advanced techniques help you understand how to properly engage and control your pelvic muscles.
It’s Never Too Late to Get Help
One of the most important things to know? It’s never too late to seek treatment. Whether you recently had a baby or your kids are fully grown, pelvic floor therapy can still provide significant benefits. Many women assume rectocele symptoms are just “part of life” or something they have to endure—but that’s simply not true. With the right approach, you can feel better and reclaim control over your body.
Why Choose Dr. Bailee at Bonneville Pelvic Health?
When it comes to pelvic health, you deserve an expert who truly understands your condition and is committed to helping you heal. Dr. Bailee is Board-Certified in Women’s Health Physical Therapy by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and has nearly a decade of experience helping women overcome pelvic floor challenges, including rectocele. Her compassionate, trauma-informed, and evidence-based approach ensures that you receive top-tier care in a supportive, judgment-free space.
At Bonneville Pelvic Health, we believe every person deserves to feel strong, confident, and comfortable in their body. If you’re dealing with rectocele symptoms, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward relief.
Find Relief and Restore Your Well-Being
You don’t have to live with discomfort or uncertainty. If you suspect you have rectocele or have already been diagnosed, know that help is available—and real relief is possible. Contact Bonneville Pelvic Health today to book a consultation with Dr. Bailee. Together, we’ll create a customized treatment plan to help you feel your best, no matter where you are on your journey.
Written by:
Dual Board-Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Bonneville Pelvic Health
As an expert in pelvic floor rehabilitation, Dr. Bailee Burningham brings extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor disorders, including all types of pelvic organ prolapse. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
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