Understanding Rectovaginal Fistulas: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Rectovaginal fistula (RVF) is a rare condition where there is an abnormal connection between the rectum and the vagina. This can cause gastrointestinal contents to flow into the vagina, leading to a range of symptoms including vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, and infection.

Rectovaginal fistulas can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Obstetric trauma: During childbirth, the rectum and vagina may be injured, leading to the formation of a fistula.
2. Rectal surgery: Rectal surgery, such as a hemorrhoidectomy or rectal cancer surgery, can sometimes result in a fistula.
3. Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause chronic inflammation in the rectum and vagina, leading to the formation of a fistula.
4. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy to the pelvic area can damage the rectal and vaginal tissues, leading to the formation of a fistula.
5. Infections: Certain infections, such as pelvic abscesses or endometritis, can cause inflammation and damage to the rectum and vagina, leading to the formation of a fistula.

Symptoms of rectovaginal fistula may include:

* Vaginal discharge
* Pelvic pain
* Abdominal pain
* Fever
* Incontinence
* Difficulty defecating

Treatment for rectovaginal fistula typically involves surgery to repair the connection between the rectum and vagina. In some cases, a colostomy or ileostomy may be necessary to divert the flow of stool away from the fistula. Additionally, treatment may involve addressing any underlying conditions that contributed to the development of the fistula, such as inflammatory bowel disease or infection.