Rectal polyps are small, fleshy growths inside the last part of the bowel. Most are harmless, but they can bleed or cause changes you can see. Painless bleeding is the classic sign. Bright-red blood drips into the bowl or shows on the toilet paper after you wipe. Mucus coating is common. Stool looks shiny or slimy, as though it’s been wrapped in clear jelly. Bowel habit changes. You may feel the urge to go again right after finishing, or have looser stools than usual. Itching or leakage occurs. The polyp leaks mucus, irritating the skin around the anus and making... Learn more