Imperforate anus is a birth defect that occurs in about one of every 5,000 newborns. It is somewhat more common in boys than girls and may include a single abnormality or a combination of abnormalities of the rectum and anus. The rectum is the end of intestine that connects with the anus and the anus is the body's opening to dispel solid waste.               Symptoms              Although there is no known cause for this condition, there are many forms of this birth defect, including:             The absence of an anal opening. An anal opening in the wrong position, usually a very small opening. An abnormal connection or opening, called a fistula, between the rectum and the urethra, bladder or vagina. In girls, the rectum, urethra and vagina can join together to form a single opening. This is called a cloaca and is very rare. [ Back ]

Imperforate anus