Does a Prostate Exam Feel Good? What to Really Expect

The prostate exam: What to expect

The prostate exam is an important part of men’s health. Typically, it involves a digital rectal exam (DRE), where a doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. It also usually includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

Many men feel anxious about the prostate exam, and they want to know: Does a prostate exam feel good? The simple answer is no, it probably won’t feel good. However, our goal is to provide you with clear and honest information about the exam itself and what to expect, so you can feel empowered to prioritize your health.

While a prostate exam isn’t designed to be a pleasurable experience, it shouldn’t be painful either. It’s also a very important tool for detecting serious health conditions early on. We’ll walk you through what to expect, address common concerns, and help you understand why proactive prostate health is so important.

Understanding the Prostate and Its Significance

The Role of the Prostate Gland

The prostate gland is a walnut-sized structure found only in men. It sits below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate helps make semen, the fluid that carries sperm.

The prostate gland plays a vital role in both urinary control and sexual function. As men age, the prostate can grow larger, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Other potential prostate problems include prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and, most seriously, prostate cancer.

Why Prostate Health Matters

Prostate health is directly linked to a man’s overall well-being. Problems with the prostate can significantly affect urinary and sexual function, leading to discomfort and a diminished quality of life, potentially including erectile dysfunction.

Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial because early intervention leads to better outcomes. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. In Europe, approximately 22% of newly diagnosed cancers in men are prostate cancer.

What to Expect During a Prostate Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re scheduled for a prostate exam, here’s what you need to know:

Before the Exam

Preparation can make things easier.

• Empty your bladder right before the exam.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You’ll need to undress from the waist down.

It’s also important to talk openly with your doctor. Ask questions and share any concerns you have.

And, if you want, ask to have another person in the room during the exam.

During the Exam

There are two main parts to a prostate exam:

The digital rectal exam (DRE)

Your doctor will gently insert a lubricated, gloved finger into your rectum to feel your prostate gland. They’re checking for any lumps, bumps, or anything else that doesn’t seem normal.

This part usually only takes a few seconds — some studies say between 3 and 20 seconds.

The PSA blood test

A blood sample will be taken to measure your PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels. It usually takes 1 to 2 weeks to get the results.

After the Exam

It’s important to schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss your results with your doctor.

Elevated PSA levels don’t automatically mean you have prostate cancer. They can also be caused by other problems. Your doctor will explain what your results mean and what the next steps might be.

You might need further tests, like an MRI or a biopsy, to get a clearer picture of what’s going on.

Addressing Common Concerns: Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety

Let’s be honest: you’re probably wondering if a prostate exam will hurt, and how uncomfortable it’ll be. That’s totally understandable. Here’s what to expect.

Will the Exam Be Painful?

During a digital rectal exam (DRE), you’ll likely feel some pressure, and maybe a little discomfort. But most men don’t find it painful. The key is to try to relax during the exam.

If you’re tense, the muscles in that area will tighten up, which can increase any discomfort. If you do experience pain at any point, tell your doctor right away.

How Invasive Is the Procedure?

The DRE is a pretty simple and quick procedure. Your doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel the prostate gland. It only takes a few moments. While it might not be the most pleasant experience, the benefits of early detection far outweigh the brief discomfort.

Finding prostate cancer early, when it’s most treatable, can literally save your life.

Managing Anxiety and Nervousness

It’s completely normal to feel nervous about a prostate exam. A lot of men do! It’s an intimate area, and the whole idea can be a little unsettling.

Here are some things you can do to ease your anxiety:

• Learn about the procedure: Understanding what’s going to happen can reduce your fear of the unknown.
• Use relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing exercises or visualization before the exam to calm your nerves. Close your eyes and picture yourself on a beach, listening to the waves. Whatever helps you relax!

Who Should Consider a Prostate Exam and When?

Prostate exams are an important part of men’s health, but who needs one and when should they start getting them?

Age as a Factor

General recommendations suggest that men over 50 should consider regular prostate exams. That’s because prostate cancer typically develops after age 50. However, there are some factors that may mean you should start screening earlier.

If you have a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate issues, you may need to start getting checked earlier, possibly as early as 40. Family history and ethnicity can influence your risk, so talk with your doctor about what’s right for you.

Recognizing Warning Signs and Symptoms

It’s important to be aware of any changes in your body that could indicate a prostate problem. Common symptoms to watch out for include, for example, a burning sensation after ejaculating:

• Frequent urination
• Difficulty urinating
• Pain during urination
• Blood in urine or semen
• Persistent pain in the back, hips, or thighs

Keep an eye on any changes in your urination habits, the presence of blood, or pain in the lower body. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your doctor.

If you have any concerns or questions about your prostate health, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing prostate issues effectively.

Prostate Cancer Screening: Benefits and Limitations

Prostate cancer screening is a process designed to detect prostate cancer early, often before you have any symptoms. It typically involves a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, and sometimes a digital rectal exam (DRE) as well.

While it seems like a good idea to screen for cancer, most countries don’t recommend routine prostate cancer screening. Why? Because screening can lead to false positives, causing unnecessary anxiety and further testing. Plus, prostate cancer often grows very slowly and may never actually cause problems during a man’s lifetime. Studies have shown that routine screening doesn’t significantly decrease the number of deaths from prostate cancer. Many men diagnosed through screening have slow-growing cancers that don’t need immediate treatment, and prostate cancer, in general, has a relatively low mortality rate.

The best approach is to talk with your doctor about your individual risk factors and any symptoms you might be experiencing. Together, you can decide if prostate cancer screening is right for you.

Embracing Proactive Prostate Health

When it comes to prostate health, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s why regular check-ups are so important, even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms. Make it a point to schedule annual visits with your doctor.

It’s also important to keep the lines of communication open with your healthcare provider. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. No question is too silly or embarrassing.

Finally, empower yourself by learning about your health. Educate yourself on diet, exercise, tests, and treatments. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to take charge of your well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Closing Thoughts

Let’s be clear: prostate exams are essential. They’re one of the best ways to catch potential problems early, when treatment is most effective and can lead to better health outcomes.

This article walked you through what you can expect during a prostate exam, addressing some of the common concerns about discomfort and anxiety. We also emphasized how important it is to talk to your doctor about any worries you have.

Now, it’s up to you to take charge of your prostate health. If you’re in the recommended age group or have risk factors, schedule a prostate exam. And make sure to keep up with your regular check-ups. Your health is worth it.