Anomalies in the Rectum: Common Concerns and Insights

There is a depression in the anus?

Hello, Doctor.
I have three questions to ask:
1.
When I shower, I sometimes check inside my anus for any unusual growths while cleaning my buttocks.
I have noticed that when I reach inside, I feel a hard surface, and there are grooves on both sides.
I would like to know if this could be the prostate? Are the grooves on either side normal?
2.
Today, while washing, I felt my finger slide into a depression, and it seemed like the right side was the intestinal wall, while the left side felt like soft tissue.
Could this be a polyp, or is it actually normal (or possibly the structure mentioned in the first question)? I have noticed that it feels different each day, and I am a bit worried that something bad might be growing.
I had a colonoscopy in September 2018, which showed no issues, only a few internal hemorrhoids.
At that time, I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome at Kaohsiung Medical University, and I am currently taking traditional Chinese medicine for treatment.
3.
Generally, when cleaning the buttocks, is it necessary to clean inside the anus, or is it sufficient to clean just the anal opening and the groin area? Thank you, Doctor.

Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/08

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It should be the tissue of internal and external hemorrhoids.
Generally, external cleaning of the anal area is sufficient.

Reply Date: 2021/07/08

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding your concerns about anomalies in the rectum. It’s important to address these issues with care and understanding, as they can often lead to anxiety. Let’s break down your questions one by one.

1. Feeling a Hard Surface in the Rectum: When you describe feeling a hard surface with grooves on either side, it is possible that you are palpating the prostate gland. The prostate is located just in front of the rectum and can often be felt during a digital rectal examination. The grooves you mention could be the normal anatomical features of the prostate. However, if you are feeling something that seems unusual or if you have any discomfort, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough examination.

2. Feeling a Soft Mass or Depression: The sensation of your finger slipping into a depression with a soft mass on one side could be concerning. It may be a normal anatomical variation, but it could also indicate the presence of a polyp or other abnormal growth. Given your history of having hemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome, it’s essential to monitor any changes in your rectal area. If you notice persistent changes, discomfort, or any bleeding, it would be prudent to seek medical advice. A follow-up colonoscopy may be warranted, especially since you had one in 2018 that showed no significant issues.

3. Cleaning the Rectum: When it comes to hygiene, it is generally sufficient to clean the external area of the anus and the surrounding skin. Inserting anything into the rectum for cleaning is not typically necessary and can sometimes lead to irritation or injury. The rectum is self-cleaning to an extent, and excessive cleaning can disrupt the natural flora and lead to infections or other complications. It’s best to focus on gentle cleaning of the external area and to avoid inserting objects or fingers into the rectum unless advised by a healthcare professional.

In summary, while some of the sensations you are experiencing may be normal anatomical features, it is crucial to remain vigilant about any changes. If you have ongoing concerns or if the sensations change, I recommend scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They can perform a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging or further diagnostic tests to ensure everything is normal.

Remember, your health is paramount, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to any changes in your body. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification.

Wishing you good health and peace of mind.

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