Sigmoidocele (also known as Pouch of Douglas descent) refers to a condition where the

sigmoid colon The sigmoid colon (or pelvic colon) is the part of the large intestine that is closest to the rectum and anus. It forms a loop that averages about in length. The loop is typically shaped like a Greek letter sigma (ς) or Latin letter S (thus ''s ...

descends (prolapses) into the lower pelvic cavity. This can obstruct the rectum and cause symptoms of obstructed defecation.

Pathophysiology

The phenomenon is caused by a weak section of fascial supports of the vagina (the uterosacral cardinal ligament complex and rectal vaginal septum), which allows a section of peritoneum containing the sigmoid colon to prolapse out of normal position and fall between the rectum and the vagina.

Diagnosis

It is not possible to differentiate between a

rectocele In gynecology, a rectocele ( ) or posterior vaginal wall prolapse results when the rectum bulges ( herniates) into the vagina. Two common causes of this defect are childbirth and hysterectomy. Rectocele also tends to occur with other forms of pe ...

and a sigmoidocele on

vaginal examination The Papanicolaou test (abbreviated as Pap test, also known as Pap smear (AE), cervical smear (BE), cervical screening (BE), or smear test (BE)) is a method of cervical screening used to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous processes in t ...

. Defecating proctography will demonstrate a sigmoidocele during straining.

Epidemiology

Sigmoidocele normally occurs in females, and is uncommon.

References

{{Female diseases of the pelvis and genitals Noninflammatory disorders of female genital tract Colorectal surgery Gynaecology