Rectovaginal Fistula Repair

An opening between the rectum and vagina can let wind or stool pass through the vagina. Surgery aims to close it, often with a bowel specialist.

Other Urogynaecology Procedures

Pelvic floor care

Closing an abnormal opening between the bowel and vagina

A rectovaginal fistula is an abnormal passage between the rectum and the vagina. It can let wind, stool or discharge pass into the vagina. Causes include childbirth injury, surgery, infection, inflammatory bowel disease and radiation.

This condition can be distressing and embarrassing. It is treatable, and you will be cared for with privacy and respect.

Dr Jasdev works with colorectal surgeons to plan the right repair for your fistula.

01

Symptoms understood first

Leaking, bulging or discomfort is assessed carefully, including how much it affects your daily life.

02

Simpler options considered too

Pelvic floor exercises, physiotherapy and other treatments without surgery are discussed alongside operations.

03

Recovery planned in advance

You will know what to expect after the procedure and when your review is due.

What fistula repair may offer

  • A clear diagnosis of the fistula and its cause
  • Repair planned with a bowel specialist
  • Care that protects bowel control

How your care is planned

Each stage is explained so you understand the cause of your symptoms, your options and what recovery involves. You can take time to decide.

01

Examine and confirm the fistula with scans

02

Treat any infection or inflammation first

03

Repair the fistula and support healing

How repair works

Any infection is treated first. Depending on its position, the fistula may be closed through the vagina, the anus or the perineum, sometimes with a flap of healthy tissue. Complex cases may need a joint operation with a colorectal surgeon. Healing takes time, and some women need more than one repair. Occasionally, the bowel is diverted for a while to let a complex repair heal.

Who may benefit

Women with wind, stool or discharge passing from the vagina, particularly after childbirth, surgery or bowel disease. It also helps women whose symptoms began after an earlier repair.

What to expect

Scans and bowel tests may be needed before surgery. Afterwards, keeping stools soft is important for healing. Recovery usually takes several weeks, with review visits to check progress.

How Dr Jasdev works with you

He brings gynaecological surgical experience and a calm, private approach to symptoms that many women find hard to talk about. Plans follow current evidence and your own priorities. You will have time to ask questions before anything is decided. Women see him from Kuala Lumpur and across Malaysia.

What to bring to your appointment

These details help Dr Jasdev understand your symptoms and plan the right tests or treatment. If you cannot find everything, bring what you have.

  • Details of births, surgery or bowel conditions
  • A description of your symptoms
  • A list of your medicines
Patient questions

What women often ask

Bladder and pelvic floor problems are common, yet many women wait years before asking about them. These questions can help you start.

01

What caused the fistula?

02

Will I need bowel surgery?

03

Will the repair affect bowel control?

04

Can it come back?

Your questions about rectovaginal fistula repair

What is a rectovaginal fistula?

It is an abnormal opening between the rectum and the vagina that lets wind or stool pass into the vagina.

Who needs repair?

Women with a confirmed fistula, after its cause and position have been assessed.

What tests are needed first?

An examination, and often an ultrasound or MRI of the pelvis and bowel tests.

Is it painful or risky?

Some discomfort is expected. Risks include infection, the fistula returning and changes in bowel control.

Why see Dr Jasdev for this?

He works closely with bowel specialists and treats you with care and discretion.

How do I book?

Call or WhatsApp the clinic to arrange a private assessment.

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Whether a procedure suits you, and its risks, recovery and alternatives, should be discussed with Dr Jasdev based on your own history.

Get discreet, specialist help

Book a private consultation to discuss your symptoms.

Call +60 12-602 3559