Due to the intermittent high pressure within it, the sigmoid colon can develop pockets called diverticuli in its walls. The presence of diverticuli, whether harmful or not, is called diverticulosis. An infection of the diverticuli is called diverticulitis.
Sigmoidoscopy is a common diagnostic technique used to examine the sigmoid colon.
If long objects are inserted forcibly into the anus during anal sex, the sigmoid colon may be damaged.