Cancer and Healthy

A digital rectal exam is part of a screening process for prostate cancer, and is done to check for problems with organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower belly. During the examination, a health professional gently puts a lubricated, gloved finger of one hand into the rectum. He or she may use the other hand to press on the lower belly or pelvic area.

This is done for men as part of a complete physical examination to check the prostate glad It is done for women as part of a gynecological examination to check the uterus and ovaries. Other organs, such as the bladder, can sometimes also be felt during a digital rectal examination.

During the examination, you will take off your clothes below the waist. You will be given a gown to wear.

• A man is often examined while he stands, bending forward at the waist. A man can also be examined while lying on his left side, with his knees bent toward his chest.
• A woman is often examined while lying on her back on an examination table, with her feet raised and supported by stirrups. A rectovaginal examination is often done for women so that organs in the pelvic area can be checked.

Your health professional gently puts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum. He or she may use the other hand to press on the lower belly or pelvic area to feel for tenderness or problems, such as enlargement, hardness, or growths.

There is really no preparation that needs to be done. If you have hemorrhoids, tell your health professional before the examination begins. Your doctor will try not to bother your hemorrhoids. Of course, ensure that you have any questions about the procedure answered and that you understand what is involved as well as risks and side effects.