Version July 2025
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What kind of objects commonly get stuck in the rectum? —
The rectum is the lower part of the large intestine (figure 1). Sometimes, objects that are designed for use in the rectum can get stuck. Other times, something that is not designed for use in the rectum is put there accidentally or intentionally.
When an object gets into the rectum that shouldn't be there, doctors sometimes call it a "foreign body."
Common things that can get stuck in the rectum and cause problems include:
●Objects used to treat hemorrhoids or constipation
●Items used for sex play, self-exploration, or other reasons
●Objects used in sexual assault
●Items used to transport drugs
●Weapons
What symptoms can happen if an object gets stuck in my rectum? —
This depends on the object, how long it has been there, and if the lining of your rectum or other internal organs are harmed.
Common symptoms include:
●Belly pain or swelling
●Dark-colored stools or bright red blood from the rectum
●Constipation or diarrhea
●Nausea or vomiting
●Pain in the rectum
●Frequent urge to have a bowel movement without being able to
●Pain when urinating
What should I do if something gets stuck in my rectum? —
The object needs to be removed as soon as possible. See your doctor or nurse if:
●You cannot remove the object easily. Objects that are large or delicate can be difficult to remove.
●You are concerned that part of the object remains in your rectum.
It might be embarrassing to tell your doctor or nurse that you have something stuck in your rectum. But it's important to get medical help.
How will the doctor or nurse remove the object? —
They will do an exam. They might order an X-ray, CT scan, or other imaging test to see where the object is. Imaging tests create pictures of the inside of the body.
The doctor will also do a rectal exam. You might be awake for this, or you might get medicines to help you relax. The doctor might give you medicine to numb the area.
They might try to remove the object during the exam. Or they might wait for you to pass the object on your own or for the object to move to a different position in your rectum.
Depending on the object, the doctor can use various tools to help remove it through your anus. These might include:
●Using a thin tube, or "catheter," with a balloon at the tip. The doctor will place the catheter past the object or inside of the object, and inflate the balloon. Then, they will gently pull the balloon toward your anus.
●Using a special type of vacuum to cause suction and remove the object
●Using a clamp or a special tool called "forceps" to remove the object
●Injecting air to break a vacuum seal around the object
●Using a magnet to remove metal objects
If the doctor cannot remove the object easily, you might need a procedure call an "endoscopy." This lets the doctor see the inside of your rectum and colon using a thin, flexible tube that has a light and camera on the end. They can also use special tools through the endoscope to help remove the item.
You might get an endoscopy after the object is removed to check for injury and to make sure that there are no other objects in your rectum.
If the object has pierced your rectum or colon, you might need surgery to remove the item and repair the area.
How do I care for myself after the object is removed? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure that you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, such as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
●Ice can help with pain and swelling. Put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on the injured area every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin.
●Take a "sitz bath" to help with pain or swelling – Soak your anus in 2 or 3 inches of warm water. You can do this for 5 minutes in the morning and 5 minutes at night. Do not add soap, bubble bath, or anything else to the water. Sitz baths can also help with constipation.
●Try to avoid getting constipation and straining when you have a bowel movement:
•Eat foods with lots of fiber in them. These include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
•Drink plenty of water and other fluids. This helps keep your bowel movements soft.
•Set a regular schedule to try and have a bowel movement. Do not ignore the urge to go.
•Give yourself plenty of time to have a bowel movement.
●Try to be active and get some exercise every day. Even gentle exercise, like walking, is good for you.
●Do not put anything in your rectum for a few weeks to let the swelling and bruising heal. After this, use vibrators or other sexual items carefully.
●Do not have anal sex until your symptoms are gone.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if:
●You have a lot of bleeding from your rectum.
●Your belly becomes very hard or swollen.
●You have sudden or severe pain in your belly or shoulder.
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●Your bowel movements are black or tar colored.
●You vomit a lot and can't keep liquids down.
●You have anal or rectal pain that is not getting better after a few days.
●Your bowel movements have a small amount (less than 1 teaspoon, or 5 mL) of blood in them.
●You have trouble having bowel movements normally, or it is painful to have a bowel movement.
Patient education: How to take a sitz bath (The Basics)
Patient education: Constipation in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: High-fiber diet (The Basics)
Patient education: Constipation in adults (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: High-fiber diet (Beyond the Basics)
