Mucus or Discharge From the Back Passage: What It Could Mean

Noticing mucus or discharge from the back passage can be uncomfortable to talk about, but it's a recognised symptom with a range of causes worth understanding.

Common causes

• Haemorrhoids, especially when they prolapse, can leak mucus.
• Anal fistula often produces persistent discharge of pus or fluid.
• Inflammation of the rectum (proctitis) and inflammatory bowel disease can cause mucus.
• Skin irritation around the anus.

Causes that need ruling out

Less commonly, persistent mucus or discharge — particularly with bleeding, a change in bowel habit, or weight loss — can be associated with polyps or bowel cancer. As with bleeding, symptoms overlap, so persistent discharge should be assessed rather than assumed harmless.

What an assessment involves

A consultation and examination, with further investigation such as a colonoscopy where indicated, identifies the cause and points to the right treatment.

When to see a specialist

See someone if discharge is persistent, recurrent, or accompanied by bleeding, pain, or a change in bowel habit.

This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a qualified clinician about your own circumstances.