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Glite Dictionary
rectal reflex

rectal reflex

6.7
A natural body response when stool in the rectum makes you want to use the toilet
  • noun
  • /ˈrɛktəl ˈriːflɛks/
  • Specialized
translation icon : reflejo rectal
  • Doctors may test the rectal reflex during a neurological examination.

Examples

  • A damaged spinal cord can impair the rectal reflex, leading to bowel dysfunction.

  • A healthy rectal reflex helps prevent constipation.

  • The rectal reflex is essential for normal bowel movements.

  • The rectal reflex is essential for normal bowel function.

  • The rectal reflex is a critical mechanism that allows the body to respond to the presence of feces.

  • If the rectal reflex is functioning properly, it ensures regular bowel movements.

  • Medical professionals often assess the rectal reflex to evaluate a patient's gastrointestinal health.

Synonyms

defecation reflex
vsrectal reflex
  • Formal
6.7

An automatic body signal that makes you want to push out poo when your bottom is full

senses stool in the lower bowel and causes contractions that produce the urge

Surface Forms

rectal reflex singular
rectal reflexes plural

Morphology

rectal + reflex

The term is transparently compositional: 'rectal' specifies location (the rectum) and 'reflex' denotes an automatic bodily response, so the combined meaning—an automatic response occurring in the rectum—is directly derivable from the parts. Although clinical in register, this follows ordinary English compounding patterns (and similar constructions exist in other languages), so a B1 learner who knows both constituents would understand the MWE.

Etymology

Rectal reflex is like a small body alarm in the rectal area. When the area fills, an automatic reflex makes the muscles squeeze and gives the 'need to go to the toilet', so the term means the normal automatic response that starts a bowel movement.