Symptoms and Signs of Foreign Object (Body) in Rectum

Doctor's Notes on Foreign Object (Body) in Rectum

The rectum is the end segment of the large intestine (the bowel) just inside the anus. Any type of object inserted into the anus may become stuck in the rectum. In some cases, a foreign body is swallowed and passes through the digestive tract, eventually getting stuck in the rectum. Foreign bodies can be anything from bottles, candles, fruits and vegetables, medical devices (a broken rectal thermometer or broken enema catheter tip), or sex toys such as vibrators or dildos.

Most people with an object in their rectum may have no signs or symptoms, which can make a diagnosis difficult, especially in children and in psychiatric patients. When treatment is delayed, complications may arise. Symptoms of complications of a foreign body in the rectum include abdominal pain or tenderness, nausea, vomiting, fever, and rectal bleeding.