I would suggest getting checked out. It can't hurt. I'm not a doctor, so I can't give you a yes or no. These can be symptoms of IBS, but not necessarily. Like I said, the main symptom is that 'something' comes out when you push. Try feeling or looking (w/ a mirror) the next time you have a BM...or are straining. Is there something protruding? That is a prolapse. There are different degrees, and at some stages it is still all internal. So, just because there isn't something coming out doesn't mean you don't have some kind of prolapse. I would have a Dr. check it out if you really want to know. If he says no, then you know and can move on. But if he says yes, there is a way to fix it!
You could just have regular old IBS w/ C. In that case, you just have to figure out what works for you. I do have to add that I think I do have some IBS as well. It's not just the prolapse. But I think the prolapse is a big part of it...and maybe part of what caused my IBS. My other big factor is stress/anxiety. I'm seeing a psychologist right now for that. And I have done the hypno program. I think the combination of therapy and surgery will make a huge improvement in how I feel. Since a lot of my problem is truly physical, I tend to eat a lot more IF than a lot of IBS people do. I try not to eat too much starchy/processed foods. I mostly eat fruits and veggies.
I am super nervous about hospital food. I've never had to stay in the hospital before. I plan to tell them that I have a restricted diet. I think you can work with a nutritionist. I can't eat some of the basic things they usual start you on...like broth and jello. MSG is one of my worst triggers. Most broth has MSG. And jello contains gelatin...a hidden source of MSG. So I'll have to figure something out.
What does processed food do to you? Does it slow things down? Does it cause spasms? Spasms/trapped gas are my worst IBS symptom. I hope they get better after surgery.
Gotta go. I hope this helps.
-------------------- ~Mary
Had surgery for rectal prolapse in Sept. '06 and feeling good now! Loving life with our IVF miracle #1.