Rectum

Rectum

The rectum is a tube shaped organ that extends from the colon to the anus. The rectum is the last part of the large intestine and connects the colon to the anus. It is a muscular tube that is about 12 cm (5 inches) long and is responsible for storing feces before they are eliminated from the body through the anus. The walls of the rectum are lined with muscles that contract and relax to move feces through the rectum and out of the body. The rectum also has several sensitive nerve endings which can make it an erogenous zone for some people. Some people may experience pain or discomfort in the rectum due to conditions such as hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, or rectal cancer.

Pleasure Physiology When aroused, the tissues of the rectum can become sexually sensitive and respond well to stimulation that produces feelings of pressure, motion, and fullness. Additionally, some people enjoy the feeling of vibration inside the rectum. For male-bodied people, the prostate is located on the upper wall of the rectum (toward the belly), and can be stimulated directly by inserting fingers or toys into the rectum. Because the wall between the vagina and rectum is fairly thin, the g-spot and/or clitoris may be indirectly stimulated during rectal play with a female-bodied person.

Lubricant Rectal tissue is very thin, does not self-lubricate and therefore may be prone to tearing during play if lubricant is not used. Although many different lubricants are adequate for rectal play, thick water based lubricant is recommended. Thicker lubricant provides more protection for rectal tissues, as it creates more ‘padding’ between rectal tissue and the object being inserted.

Feces in the Rectum Generally, when there is no feeling of needing to evacuate the bowels, the rectum will be empty. Feces moves from the colon to the rectum when someone feels the urge to evacuate. If this urge is ignored, the need to evacuate will dissipate and the feces in the rectum will move back to the colon. There may be trace elements of fecal matter located in the rectum; most of this will be located around the anal opening and can be removed with a wet-wipe or soap and water.

Important Hygienic Note When pleasuring a female bodied person, it is extremely important not to go from stimulating the rectum to stimulating the vaginal area. If bacteria from the rectum are transferred to the vagina, vaginal infection may occur.

Fun Facts About The Rectum

  • The rectum is part of the body’s “elimination system” which also includes the colon, anus, and urinary system.
  • The rectum is lined with a mucous membrane that helps to protect and lubricate the passage of feces.
  • The rectum plays an important role in the body’s ability to control bowel movements. It is responsible for storing feces and releasing them at the appropriate time.
  • The rectum is rich in blood vessels and nerve endings, making it an erogenous zone for some people.
  • The rectum is also home to the prostate gland in males and the uterus in females.
  • The rectum is also part of the digestive system and helps to absorb water and electrolytes from the feces before they are eliminated from the body.
  • In some traditional cultures, the rectum is used in certain medical treatments such as enemas and rectal exams.
  • Some people may experience pain or discomfort in the rectum due to conditions such as hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, or rectal cancer.

Could A Person Be Born Without A Rectum? Yes, it is possible for a person to be born without a rectum, this is called anorectal malformations. These malformations occur in about 1 in 5,000 live births, and can range from mild to severe. Some of the malformations can be repaired surgically, while others may require a colostomy, which is the creation of an opening in the abdomen through which the stool is collected in a bag.