Dear Dr. Motola,
Is is possible to perform a self exam of the prostate and if so, how can it be done?
It is possible to perform a self-exam, however the subtle differences in the consistency of the prostate that are indicative of prostate malignancy would be best appreciate...
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Untitled Comment
Anonymous
Friday, October 09, 2009 at 05:34 PM
While self-examination shouldn't replace annual doctor's exams, it is not without merit. If you become familiar with the feel of your prostate gland, you may be able to detect changes. Early detection is key when it comes to any type of cancer, because treatment is much more effective in the early stages.
HOW TO PERFORM A SELF PROSTATE EXAM:
It is pretty simple for a man to feel his own prostate gland. It is a walnut sized organ at the base of your bladder. To feel it simply take your finger and insert it into the rectum. The prostate should have a texture similar to that of the meaty part of your thumb. At first the self prostate exam may be difficulty, but with practice you can do it. If when you do the examine you feel anything that is roughly as hard as a knuckle your doctor should be alerted right away. In addition, if you feel extreme discomfort or pain when touching your prostate you should notify your doctor right away,
While self-examination shouldn't replace annual doctor's exams, it is not without merit. If you become familiar with the feel of your prostate gland, you may be able to detect changes. Early detection is key when it comes to any type of cancer, because treatment is much more effective in the early stages.
HOW TO PERFORM A SELF PROSTATE EXAM:
It is pretty simple for a man to feel his own prostate gland. It is a walnut sized organ at the base of your bladder. To feel it simply take your finger and insert it into the rectum. The prostate should have a texture similar to that of the meaty part of your thumb. At first the self prostate exam may be difficulty, but with practice you can do it. If when you do the examine you feel anything that is roughly as hard as a knuckle your doctor should be alerted right away. In addition, if you feel extreme discomfort or pain when touching your prostate you should notify your doctor right away,