Catherine started experiencing rectal prolapse in 2020, at the height of the pandemic. She struggled to get heard by her doctors, and had to take several routes before she found the right treatment. Now, on the other side of it all, she’s been able to find hope after a very long few years of tests, diagnosis and treatment.
We’re very grateful to Catherine for speaking to us about her story, and for sharing what a difference the Bladder & Bowel Community has made to her life during this difficult time.
Catherine, can you tell us how your problems started?
My bowel problems began at least 5 years ago. I had a rectal prolapse. I thought I was having a bowel movement. It was my bowel protruding and frightened me so much. I was referred and had a sigmoidoscopy, and after that I was told it was piles. I knew it wasn’t but just left it like that.
What happened after that, were you offered treatment?
It happened more often after that, and I had test after test. Unpleasant and embarrassing, but I wanted to find a solution. Luckily the staff were wonderful. I’d had occasional bouts of bowel incontinence and was now scared to go out. Eventually the colorectal consultant said he could help me with an operation. I could have hugged him. This had taken about 3 years! I finally underwent surgery in January 2025, and was really hoping that would help my symptoms.
How were your symptoms after surgery, and what happened next?
After surgery, it never felt right. Eventually the consultant referred me to another hospital as he couldn’t help me. The incontinence had worsened and I felt dreadful. I feared going out after 2 awful bouts of incontinence out in public. When I was indoors, it was a mad dash to the bathroom.
I’m still on the NHS waiting list. We explored private healthcare and the consultant was fantastic and explained that he could help. They gave us a price which we could afford with care and family support. I underwent surgery again in October 2025. It was a much better experience than the previous surgery and the consultant was very pleased with how it had gone. I felt differently this time!
Now you’ve recovered, what do you do to manage your condition?
Now, I’m more positive but still anxious. I have odd bouts of incontinence but haven’t had any for a while now which is a huge improvement! I’ve seen a pelvic floor physiotherapist who was fantastic, to help with my recovery and bowel control. It takes commitment and determination. I’ve been doing pelvic exercises now for at least 2 years.
The consultant also recommended using Immodium and Fybogel as and when needed. I’m still anxious about going out but things are much better than they were.
I found out about the Bladder and Bowel Community online support group, which has been really helpful and supportive. This is something that is not easy to talk about, but reading stories of other sufferers makes you realise you’re not alone.
What’s next for you, Catherine?
Today I had a follow up with the physiotherapist. She was brilliant, and very pleased with my progress. The usual intimate examinations but she made me feel relaxed and safe. My improvement was really good – so much so that I don’t need any more follow up appointments which is brilliant.
I know I’m still healing inside. The anxiety may never go but I try to be kind to myself.
Maybe this year we may go out and about more!
Thank you for reading this.
We’d like to thank Catherine for sharing her experiences and helping others who might be going through something similar.
Whenever you have investigative tests that you feel comfortable and are reassured by those around you. You can always ask for a chaperone, or request treatment at a particular hospital or service where possible – simply speak to your clinician or GP to see what options are available in your area.
Further Information
It’s important to ask for help when you need it. This could be as simple as self-referral to the NHS Talking Therapies service to help with remote yet practical Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or seeking support groups as Catherine did. It may take a while to find the right support, so we suggest you try a few different types to see what works for you. Despite conversations about bladder and bowel health feeling a little taboo still, there are lots of people in a similar situation, and ways in which you can connect.
If you are living with similar symptoms to Catherine, you may find a Just Can’t Wait Card can help you gain access to toilets in urgent situations, when you’re away from home. Find out more and order your toilet card for free.
If you need further information on where to get help with your emotional health, read our article on how living with a bladder or bowel condition can affect your mental health. You can also reach out to us directly if you need more details on where to get help.