The digital rectal exam is a physical examination of the rectum, the last few inches of the bowel, just above the anus. The doctor uses a gloved and lubricated finger to check for abnormalities of the anus and rectum. It takes about one to two minutes and, although it may cause some mild discomfort, it should not be painful.
By feeling through the rectal wall, the doctor can also examine the surface of the prostate gland in men and some of the reproductive organs in women.
Read moreDear 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... Read more »
My father was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2002. I still remember going with him to his doctor's appointment where we nervously sat in... Read more »
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common phenomenon among older men. It basically is the non-cancerous enlargement of the... Read more »
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland, caused by several factors and resulting in three different conditions. It is the... Read more »
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Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Treating Prostate Cancer A Guide for Men With Localized Prostate Cancer Most men have time to learn about all the options for treating their prostate... Read more »
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Ever since they first appeared in this country, some hundred years ago, professional baseball games have been a quintessential opportunity for... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
BPH; Benign prostatic hypertrophy (hyperplasia); Prostate - enlarged Symptoms Less than half of all men with BPH have symptoms of the... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
All adults should visit their health care provider from time to time, even if they are healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for... Read more »