Where the rectum is, in 3D
The rectum is the final part of the large intestine, leading to the anus. It is part of the large intestine and belongs to the digestive system. It continues from the sigmoid colon at the level of the third sacral vertebra and is about 12 to 15 cm long. It follows the curve of the sacrum down through the pelvic floor to the anal canal.
Frequently asked questions
Which body system does the rectum belong to?
The rectum belongs to the digestive system. The digestive system is made up of the digestive tract running from mouth to anus (oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestine) and the liver, gallbladder and pancreas, which make digestive juices and send them into the tract.
What else can you see alongside the rectum?
The BAHI BODY 3D model of the large intestine also shows the ascending colon, transverse colon and descending colon.
Where is the large intestine?
The large intestine starts where the small intestine ends, wraps around the abdomen and leads to the rectum.
Which organs lie in front of the rectum?
The bladder and prostate in men, and the uterus and vagina in women.
Other parts of the large intestine
Wider view
Read more
Related reading
- Ultra-processed food and the gut microbiome: what the research shows, and what it doesn’t
- Coffee on an empty stomach after a broken night: what a study found about blood sugar
Once the 3D model loads you can turn it and select each part.