Perineal splinting is a manual technique used to assist with bowel movements. This method involves applying gentle pressure to the perineum or within the vagina to provide support during defecation. It helps facilitate stool passage when the body’s natural mechanics are not fully efficient.
Why Support is Sometimes Needed
The process of defecation relies on the coordinated function of the pelvic floor muscles and the rectum. Normally, the rectum stores stool, and during a bowel movement, the puborectalis muscle relaxes to straighten the anorectal angle, allowing stool to pass smoothly.
Certain conditions can disrupt this natural alignment, making it difficult to evacuate the rectum without assistance. Weakened pelvic floor muscles, often due to childbirth, chronic straining, or aging, may not adequately support the rectum.
This weakness can lead to a rectocele, a bulging of the rectum’s front wall into the vagina’s back wall. When a rectocele is present, stool can become trapped, preventing complete emptying and creating a sensation of incomplete defecation. Manual support helps counteract the bulge or straighten the rectal pathway, allowing for more effective stool passage.
How to Perform Perineal Splinting
Performing perineal splinting involves techniques to provide manual support during a bowel movement. Ensure hands are clean before attempting any method. Most people find it helpful to be seated on the toilet for optimal positioning.
One common approach is digital splinting, which involves placing a finger or thumb inside the vagina. With a clean finger, gently insert it and apply pressure backward, towards the rectum. This pressure supports the rectal wall, reducing bulging and allowing stool to move through the straightened pathway. Some individuals find that feeling for a bulge along the back wall of the vagina and gently guiding stool downward towards the anus is most effective.
Another method is external manual pressure, applied to the perineum or buttock area. This involves using a clean finger or hand to press gently on the perineum, the area between the vagina (or scrotum) and the anus, pushing upward and inward. Alternatively, pressure can be applied to the buttock.
The goal of external pressure is to provide counter-support to the rectum, helping to direct stool and facilitate its exit. Gentle application is key, avoiding forceful or painful pressure.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While perineal splinting offers temporary relief and assists with bowel movements, its regular necessity often signals an underlying issue warranting medical evaluation. Splinting is a compensatory action, not a long-term solution for bowel dysfunction. If splinting becomes a frequent or daily requirement, consult a healthcare professional.
Seeking medical advice is also important if you experience new symptoms, such as pain during bowel movements, rectal bleeding, or worsening existing symptoms. These could indicate significant conditions requiring diagnosis and treatment. A doctor can assess the root cause, which might include pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, a rectocele, or other pelvic organ prolapse. Depending on the diagnosis, long-term solutions may involve lifestyle adjustments like increasing fiber and water intake, pelvic floor physical therapy, or surgical intervention to correct anatomical issues.