Rectal Examination



Rectal examination is related to the problems in the lower abdomen and pelvis. Doctors can take help of this examination to find out various diseases related to this area and it is easy to examine. For the diagnosis, they will use the lubricated gloved finger and insert it into the patient’s anus so that they can cover the maximum organs present there. This examination is done for men as well as for women. Women suffering from any gynaec problem may undergo rectal examination, and also it can help in checking her womb in case of pregnancy too.

Why it is necessary

It is absolutely required to check the problem in the areas related with lower abdomen, pelvis, and anal region. This examination is done to check all the surrounding areas with the affected one, so that proper treatment will be given to the patient. The patient suffering from internal piles, cancer of the rectum, anal fissures and growth results a patient to go through with the rectal examination. For men as well as women, rectal examination procedure can be carried out. Enlargement of the prostate gland of the men, is a serious condition which could be diagnosed with this examination. By checking the front wall of the rectum, the doctor will see whether the gland is bigger than its normal size and a smooth area getting identified, showing the symptoms of cancer. The surrounding areas of the lower abdomen are thin. Rectal examination helps doctor in diagnosing other diseases like neck of the womb or ovaries. Vaginal examination is also done. In case of women, this examination is done to check the womb in case she is pregnant as well as to check for any gynaecological problem. Pregnant women will go under Rectal Examination only after doctor’s recommendation.

How is it performed

The rectal examination is done by experts. At the time of diagnosis, doctor shall explain the complete methodology of this examination to the patient. Before doing it they will firstly check the outside area of the anus or vagina. Then patient needs to strain the bowel and bulged out any protrudes in anus. It’s advisable that this examination should be done in the presence of one nurse. Experts will ask the patient to remove the clothes till the waist line and they will then be given a cloth to wrap around the waist line. The rectal examination is however comfortable and patient may not feel embarrassed. It is important that the patient lie down in the appropriate position at the time of examination. During examination knee-elbow position is used for men and for women. They are instructed to lie down with both the feet up in the air. Experts use disposable plastic gloves. Water based jelly is used for lubrication. At the time of examination, expert press the organs and structures in the lower abdomen. After the examination gets over doctor removes the finger and check for bleeding. After the examination, if the exact condition has not been identified, the doctor may recommend further treatment by asking the patient to take the stool test.

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