What are diverticula?
A diverticulum is a small pouch with a narrow neck that protrudes from (sticks out from) the wall of the gut. Diverticula means more than one diverticulum. They can develop on any part of the gut (intestines), but usually occur in the colon (sometimes called the large bowel or large intestine). They most commonly develop in the section of the colon leading towards the rectum, where the stools (sometimes called faeces or motions) are becoming more solid. This is on the left hand side of the abdomen. Several diverticula may develop over time. Some people eventually develop many diverticula.



