Anal bleeding

BLEEDING FROM THE BOTTOM


A small amount of one-off bleeding from your bottom isn't usually serious but should be investigated by a consultant

Enquiries & Appointments

What is anal bleeding? 

Bleeding from your bottom can happen for a number of reasons. If it's an isolated occurrence it is unlikely to be anything serious and may be a symptom of haemorrhoids. However, it is important to get checked as it can sometimes be a sign of bowel cancer. This is easier to treat if it's found early so you should not ignore your symptoms.


Need to know

Symptoms may include:

  • Pink water in your toilet after passing stools
  • Blood on your toilet paper
  • Blood in your stool

Your consultant may perform a physical examination to check what is causing your symptoms. This might include checking your bottom with a gloved finger, providing a sample of your stool for lab testing or referring you for specialist imaging tests, such as an MRI scan.

Treatments will be dependent on the cause of your anal bleeding. They may include:

  • Haemorrhoids. Topical ointments and gels to reduce the inflammation. In severe cases, banding or removal.
  • Bowel cancer. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.

Our Anal bleeding locations

The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
Walk-In GP Centre at London Bridge Hospital

Walk-In GP Centre at London Bridge Hospital

29 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.