A rectal ulcer happens when one or more of the mucus layers that line the rectum are injured or damaged, resulting in a painful sore. Your rectum is the last few inches of your large intestine (colon) ...

Anal douching is using a device, such as a squeeze bottle or tube, to squirt water or other liquids into your rectum to clean it. Some people do anal douching before having anal sex or just to feel ...

The terms “hemorrhoids” and “rectal varices” are often used interchangeably, but they’re separate conditions with different causes and treatments. Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in ...

It’s important to understand how radiation therapy fits into your rectal cancer treatment plan. This information can help you make choices about your care. Radiation therapy works by using high-energy ...

Even though your butt is an erogenous zone (and a beloved one here at SELF), the fact remains that hot sex isn’t its primary function. The anus, a.k.a. your butthole, and the rectum make up the final ...

Mark Gurarie is a writer covering health topics, technology, music, books, and culture. He also teaches health science and research writing at George Washington University's School of Medical and ...