When should you not delay going to the emergency room for a rectal object?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

When to Go to the ER for a Rectal Object

Seek emergency care immediately if you have a rectal foreign object and experience any of the following: severe pain, rectal bleeding, abdominal swelling, fever, difficulty passing stool, or if you are unable to safely remove the object on your own. Delaying care can lead to serious complications, including bowel perforation, infection, or internal bleeding.

Not sure how urgent your symptoms are? Understanding your situation quickly can make all the difference. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights based on your symptoms, learn what conditions may be involved, and find clear guidance on your next steps—whether that's the ER, urgent care, or a specialist. It only takes a few minutes and could help you act with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if rectal pain needs urgent care Discover likely causes of rectal discomfort Find out if rectal injury is serious See OTC relief for rectal pain Find a specialist for rectal injury Understand home care for rectal discomfort Check if a rectal object needs care

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Explanation

If you have a rectal object that you cannot remove on your own, it is important to seek medical help quickly. Waiting too long can cause serious problems, like damage to your rectum or infection.

Here are some signs that you should go to the emergency room right away:

Severe Pain: If you are experiencing a lot of pain, it is a signal that something might be wrong.
Bleeding: If you notice blood, it could mean there is an injury.
Fever or Signs of Infection: Feeling very hot or having chills can mean there is an infection.
No Bowel Movements: If you cannot have a bowel movement, it could mean the object is blocking your intestines.

The medical literature shows that trying to remove the object yourself can sometimes make things worse. Doctors have special tools and training to help remove the object safely. If you're experiencing any concerning symptoms and need guidance on whether to seek immediate care, you can use a free symptom checker to help assess your situation. However, if you are in doubt, it is better to be safe and get checked by a doctor.

(References)

Ologun GO, Stevenson Y, Cagir B, Granet P, & McPhail P. (2018). Successful Retrieval of a Retained Rectal Foreign Body in .... Cureus, 29531878.
Yaman M, Deitel M, Burul CJ, Shahi B, & Hadar B. (1993). Foreign bodies in the rectum. Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie, 8472230.
Principe DR, Rubin J, Narbutis M, Cabrera J, & Mitsiev I. (2019). Repeat presentation of large rectal foreign body requiring .... Journal of surgical case reports, 31044063.

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