Fellowship-Trained Urogynecologist
Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
Green Bay, Wisconsin
✓ Medically reviewed March 2026
What Is an Enterocele?
An enterocele is a type of pelvic organ prolapse where the small intestine pushes into the space between the vagina and rectum, creating a bulge in the upper back wall of the vagina. It’s less common than cystocele or rectocele but can occur alongside other types of prolapse.
How It Develops
The space between the vagina and rectum (the cul-de-sac or pouch of Douglas) is normally a closed space. When the tissue separating the vaginal wall from this space weakens — often after hysterectomy — the small intestine can herniate into it.
Enteroceles are most common after hysterectomy, when the support at the top of the vagina is disrupted. They often occur alongside vaginal vault prolapse.
Symptoms
- Deep pelvic pressure, especially when standing
- A pulling or dragging sensation
- Low back ache that worsens through the day
- May cause no specific symptoms and be found during examination for other prolapse types
Treatment
- Pessary — supports the vaginal vault and reduces herniation
- Surgical repair — often addressed during a larger prolapse repair, closing the defect and reinforcing the area
Enteroceles rarely occur in isolation. They’re usually part of a bigger picture of pelvic support loss, and we address them as part of a comprehensive prolapse repair.
← Learn more about Pelvic Organ Prolapse