How the prostate exam is done

The digital rectal examination is an essential medical examination for the diagnosis and detection of different pathologies of the pelvic area and its surroundings. This medical test consists of the exploration of the anatomy of the genital, urinary and lower digestive systems – of men and women – through manual palpation with the introduction of a finger through the anal sphincter.

Most of the rectal exams are done in men, since this medical test is especially useful for the diagnosis of prostate diseases. Thanks to its proximity, the prostate is easily accessible from the anal orifice, so a simple exploration that does not require technology of any kind, allows its surface to be palpated .

Before explaining the procedure by which the rectal examination is carried out, we are going to tell you about the different positions you can take so that this test passes with maximum comfort, both for you and for the doctor. Normally, depending on your personal characteristics, the doctor will choose one or another position, although if necessary, he may also give you to choose the position in which you feel most comfortable. The three main positions the patient is usually in are:

Dorsal decubitus

Stretched out on the back with the knees bent towards the chest, this position is normally used in patients who are already bedridden or who have mobility difficulties. It is the best posture for prostate exploration and also allows a bimanual exploration, apart from the finger, an exploration of the abdomen can be done with the other hand, however from the point of view of the patient it is the most violent .

Lateral decubitus

It is the most used position in the case of elderly or debilitated patients who do not have enough strength to hold in the genu-pectoral position. The lateral decubitus is done on the left side, with bent hips and knees so that an angle is formed between the trunk and the thighs where the doctor should be. This position is preferred by patients considering it the least violent .

Genu-pectoral position

The genu-pectoral position is one in which the patient is placed on the stretcher on his knees , being separated, supporting the chest and head on the same stretcher. It is also common to do it while standing , resting the forearms on the table and with the trunk leaning forward. Although it is one of those that offers less intimacy to the patient, it is the one that best allows a rectal examination, however, the supine position is preferable for the prostate.

Before starting the test, with the patient already placed on the stretcher, the doctor will put on latex or vinyl gloves, to which he will apply a lubricant that does not damage the gloves, and a glycerin cream that is usually somewhat anesthetic for that the patient notices as little as possible.

Inspection

With all the preparations done, the doctor will separate the buttocks in order to make a visual examination of the anus and its surroundings, for which it is usually normal to ask the patient to make a slight defecatory action, with which he will be able to observe the protrusion of the mucosa.

Palpation

Once the inspection is done, the medical professional will move on to palpation. You will first palpate the sacrococcygeal and perineal areas, looking for masses, indurations, or fluctuations. Then, after lubricating the finger and the anal orifice abundantly, he will place the finger, usually the second anterior of his dominant hand, in the anterior corner of the anus, and will press carefully until he overcomes the opposition of the sphincter, inserting it as far as possible through of the rectal ampulla.

At most it will be possible to reach what the doctor’s finger allows, about 10 cm, in which the mucosa of the rectum and its canal will be studied by circumferences, until the prostate is located, which will also be digitally examined in search of possible anomalies or irregularities.

Although some people may find it uncomfortable or unpleasant, if there is no problem such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, in which case a digital rectal examination is not recommended, the patient should not feel any pain . To this fact we must add that it is a quick medical test, which does not take long, instead it offers very useful information that can be used to detect any abnormality that may lead to problems for your health early.

During the examination, the doctor will carefully study the following parameters, being alert for any changes:

• If there are both nodules and irregularities on the prostate surface.
• If an increase in consistency is observed , either in a specific portion or diffusely, of the prostate.
• If there are alterations in the entire area that borders the gland.
• If the palpation is painful in excess.
• If there is an enlargement of its normal size .

In our articles on natural remedies for an enlarged prostate and medicinal plants for the prostate you will find more information and ways to take care of this important organ for men.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to How the prostate exam is done , we recommend that you enter our category of Male reproductive system .