Do you ever leave the toilet feeling like you haven’t quite finished? If you often feel as though you still need to empty your bowels – even after just going – you could be experiencing a symptom called tenesmus. At The The Midlands Bowel Clinic, our bowel specialists are here to help you get answers, rule out anything serious, and feel more in control of your bowel health.
What is tenesmus?
Tenesmus is the sensation of incomplete emptying of the bowel. You may feel like you need to pass stool again soon after a bowel movement, or have an ongoing urge to open your bowels even when there’s little or no stool to pass.
This sensation can be uncomfortable, frustrating and distressing – particularly if it becomes persistent. It’s often a sign that something is irritating or affecting the rectum or lower bowel.
What causes tenesmus?
Several bowel conditions can cause tenesmus. These include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, which cause inflammation of the bowel lining
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – a functional bowel disorder that can lead to altered sensations and muscle activity in the gut
- Rectal polyps or bowel cancer – growths in the rectum or lower bowel can create a feeling of blockage or incomplete emptying
- Rectal prolapse – when part of the rectum slips down, leading to incomplete evacuation
- Infections – such as proctitis or gastroenteritis, which can irritate the bowel lining
- Radiation proctitis – a side effect of pelvic radiotherapy that inflames the rectum
When to see a bowel specialist
Tenesmus can sometimes be a minor issue, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be properly investigated – especially if you also experience:
- Blood or mucus in your stool
- A change in your usual bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lower abdominal or rectal pain
- A sense of urgency or incontinence
- A family history of bowel cancer or IBD
If you’re over 50 and have new bowel symptoms, it’s especially important to seek medical advice.
How we investigate tenesmus
At The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we take a comprehensive and respectful approach to understanding your symptoms. Investigations may include:
- Physical examination – including a gentle rectal exam
- Blood and stool tests – to check for inflammation, infection or signs of bowel disease
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy – to inspect the bowel lining and take biopsies if needed
- MRI or CT scans – if deeper bowel or pelvic imaging is required
- Endoanal ultrasound – to assess the muscles around the rectum
- Anorectal physiology testing – to understand muscle function and sensation
Our goal is to identify the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that relieves your symptoms.
Treatment options
Treatment for tenesmus depends on what’s causing it. Your consultant may recommend:
- Anti-inflammatory medication – for conditions like IBD or radiation proctitis
- Dietary advice and gut-directed therapies – especially if IBS is involved
- Treatment for constipation or diarrhoea – which can worsen the sensation
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy – if muscle function is contributing
- Endoscopic or surgical treatment – if polyps, prolapse, or structural problems are found
We tailor every plan to your individual needs, with the aim of improving comfort, function, and quality of life.
Why choose The Midlands Bowel Clinic?
We’re a team of highly experienced bowel specialists offering fast access to expert care across the Midlands. Our clinic combines advanced diagnostics, evidence-based treatments, and a patient-first approach – so you can feel confident you’re in safe hands.
Contact us
If you’re struggling with a persistent feeling of incomplete bowel emptying or any other bowel symptoms, contact The Midlands Bowel Clinic today. We’re here to help you find answers and feel more comfortable again.
