Abstract: There is disclosed a rectal area dressing for controlling discharge from the rectoperineal body portion for use by incontinent persons having anal musculature complications. The rectal area dressing includes an elongated absorbent pad configured for conforming arrangement within the lowermost portion of the rectum and natal cleft for absorbtion of rectal discharge. A non-permeable adhesive material is affixed to the base exterior surface of the elongated absorbent pad to maintain the exterior of the rectal dressing free from rectal discharge. The rectal area dressing also includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape to secure the elongated absorbent pad within the natal cleft. The adhesive tape includes a central section which is affixed to the base of the elongated pad and extending end members which adhere to the skin surfaces in the rectoperineal body portion.