PHYSICAL WELLNESS

your final stop for waste removal

THE RECTUM + aNUS

Think of the rectum as your body’s storage drawer and the anus as the exit door.
The rectum holds waste until it’s time to go, and the anus controls when (and how) it leaves.

While they don’t get much attention, these structures are essential for controlling bowel movements and keeping your digestion running smoothly.

Your rectum + anus:

  • Store solid waste (feces) until it’s ready to be passed

  • Signal your brain when it’s time to go

  • Control the release of stool with the help of muscles (sphincters)

  • Maintain continence (prevent accidental leakage)

  • Support the final stage of digestion by eliminating waste products

RECTUM + ANUS BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for rectal + anal related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Rectum - The last section of the large intestine where stool is stored

Anus - The opening where waste leaves the body

Sphincter - A circular muscle that opens and closes to control stool release

Internal Anal Sphincter - Involuntary muscle that helps keep the anus closed

External Anal Sphincter - Voluntary muscle you control to release stool

Defecation - The act of passing stool

Continence - The ability to control bowel movements

WHAT THE RECTUM + ANUS WORKS WITH

THE rectum + anus + OTHER SYSTEMS

  • Large Intestine → Passes solid waste into the rectum

  • Nervous System → Sends “time to go” signals and helps coordinate muscle control

  • Pelvic Floor Muscles → Work with sphincters to control elimination

  • Brain → Decides the appropriate time and place for bowel movements

  • Blood Vessels → Supply oxygen and nutrients to tissues

A healthy RECTUM + ANUS:

  • Allow controlled, comfortable bowel movements

  • Prevent accidental leakage or urgency issues

  • Help signal when your body needs to eliminate waste

  • Support digestive comfort and gut health

    Problems in this area — like constipation, hemorrhoids, incontinence, or anal fissures — can significantly affect daily life and overall well-being.

    Taking care of your digestive health, staying hydrated, eating enough fiber, and keeping pelvic floor muscles strong all help these final-stage organs do their job.