The 'ins and outs' of the prostate exam

A prostate exam, also known as a digital rectal exam (DRE), is a procedure used by doctors to check for abnormalities or signs of prostate cancer. Here's what typically happens during a prostate exam:

1. Preparation:

• The patient will be asked to undress from the waist down and put on a gown.
• Some clinics may provide a sheet or drape for privacy.

2. Positioning:

• The patient usually stands bent over a table, lies on their side with knees drawn up to the chest, or kneels on a table with their upper body supported.
• The doctor may also ask the patient to lean over the examination table.

3. Lubrication:

• The doctor will put on a glove and apply a lubricant to their gloved finger.
• The lubricant helps make the exam more comfortable and allows the doctor's finger to move smoothly.

4. Insertion:

• The doctor will gently insert their gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum.
• The prostate gland is located just in front of the rectum, so the doctor can feel it by reaching through the rectal wall.

5. Examination:

• The doctor will use their finger to feel the size, shape, and texture of the prostate gland.
• They may press or massage different areas of the prostate to check for any abnormalities, lumps, or areas of tenderness.
• The entire exam usually takes only a few seconds to a minute.

6. Completion:

• Once the exam is done, the doctor will remove their finger.
• They may provide tissues or wipes for the patient to clean up any excess lubricant.

7. Explanation:

• The doctor will discuss their findings with the patient.
• If everything feels normal, they will explain that no abnormalities were detected.
• If they feel anything unusual, they may recommend further testing, such as blood tests or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, to check for signs of prostate cancer.

Things to Note:

• The exam may cause a slight sensation of pressure or discomfort, but it should not be painful.
• It's important for patients to relax as much as possible during the exam, as this can help make it more comfortable.
• Doctors often recommend annual prostate exams for men over a certain age, typically starting around 50, or earlier for those with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors.

Conclusion:

A prostate exam is a straightforward and relatively quick procedure used to check for signs of prostate cancer or other prostate-related issues. While it may be slightly uncomfortable, it is an important part of preventive healthcare for men, particularly as they get older. Men should discuss with their doctor when it is appropriate to start prostate screenings based on their age, family history, and overall health.

Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model