What does rectocele refer to in medical terms?

Rectocele refers specifically to a condition in which the rectum protrudes into the posterior wall of the vagina due to a weakening of the supporting tissue. This downward shifting of the rectum can occur due to factors such as childbirth, aging, or increased pressure from conditions like constipation or obesity.

In this context, it accurately describes how the rectum displaces downward, which can lead to various symptoms including discomfort, difficulty with bowel movements, or a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region. This condition exemplifies the challenges of pelvic support structures and highlights the importance of understanding pelvic anatomy in addressing women's health issues.

The other options address different conditions; for instance, prolapse of the bladder involves the bladder shifting downward into the vagina, which is known as cystocele. Infection or inflammation of the rectum and colon refer to conditions not related to the structural displacement that characterizes rectocele. Thus, while all these terms are relevant to gastrointestinal and pelvic health, only the definition associated with the downward shifting of the rectum accurately captures the essence of what rectocele is.