The term rectum refers to the lower 12-15 centimeters of the giant gut (colon). The rectum is located just above the anal canal (the junction is called the anorectal area). Normally the rectum is securely attached to the pelvis with the aid of ligaments and muscular tissues that keep it in place. When these ligaments and muscle groups weaken, the rectum can slip or fall out of place, or prolapse (also referred to as rectal procidentia).
In the early phases of rectal prolapse, the rectum becomes poorly attached however it stays inside the body. This stage is called mucosal prolapse, or partial prolapse, which means that the internal lining of the rectum (rectal mucosa) protrudes from the anus. This happens when the connective tissues within the rectal mucosa loosen and stretch, allowing the tissue to protrude through the anus. When long-term hemorrhoidal disease is the reason, the condition does not development to entire prolapse. Choosing if the problem is hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse is most important. Hemorrhoids arise often, but they hardly ever cause the condition.