Complications

Physical complications of a rectovaginal fistula may include:

• Uncontrolled loss of stool (fecal incontinence)
• Hygiene problems
• Recurrent vaginal or urinary tract infections
• Irritation or inflammation of your vagina, perineum or the skin around your anus
• An infected fistula that forms an abscess, a problem that can become life-threatening if not treated
• Fistula recurrence

Among women with Crohn's disease who develop a fistula, the chances of complications are high. These can include poor healing, or another fistula forming later.