Understanding Rectal Examinations: Purpose, Procedure, and Diagnosis

A rectal examination, also known as a prostate exam or a rectal check, is a medical procedure in which a healthcare provider inserts a gloved finger into the patient's rectum to examine the rectal tissue and surrounding structures, such as the prostate gland. The purpose of the examination is to assess the health of the rectal tissue, identify any abnormalities or diseases, and monitor the progress of previous treatments.

During the examination, the healthcare provider may feel for any lumps or abnormalities in the rectal tissue, as well as check the size and shape of the prostate gland. They may also perform a digital rectal exam (DRE) to check for any tenderness or abnormalities in the prostate gland.

Rectal examinations are commonly performed during routine physical exams, as well as when a patient is experiencing symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, or difficulty urinating. They can help diagnose conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and prostate cancer, among others.