Rectovaginal fistula

Rectovestibular fistula
Rectovaginal fistula
Specialty	Gynecology
Diagnostic method	• No anal opening • A gloved finger or thermometer cannot be inserted into the infants rectum • No history of passage of meconium • Presence of abdominal distension • Presence of meconium in urine
Treatment	PSARP

A rectovaginal fistula is a medical condition where there is a fistula or abnormal connection between the rectum and the vagina.^[1]

Rectovaginal fistulae may be extremely debilitating. If the opening between the rectum and vagina is wide it will allow both flatulence and feces to escape through the vagina, leading to fecal incontinence. There is an association with recurrent urinary and vaginal infections. The fistula may also connect the rectum and urethra, which is called recto-urethral fistula. Either conditions can lead to labial fusion. This type of fistula can cause pediatricians to misdiagnose imperforate anus. The severity of the symptoms will depend on the size of fistula. Most often, it appears after about one week or so after childbirth.