Examination of your anus and rectum (back passage)

This examination involves your doctor feeling inside the anus and rectum using their finger. This is also called a digital rectal exam (DRE). You might have a DRE if you have symptoms that could be due to bowel or anal cancer. 

Why you might have an examination of the anus and rectum

You might have this to help work out the cause of your symptoms.

Preparing for the examination

It’s normal to feel anxious about this test but it usually only takes a few minutes. It might be uncomfortable but you shouldn’t feel any pain. Tell your doctor if you do.

You can ask for a man or woman doctor if you’d prefer. Or you can have someone else in the room, such as a family member.

What happens?

The doctor or nurse will ask you to take off your clothes on your lower half, including underwear.

You lie on your left hand side, with your knees brought up towards your chest.

The doctor or nurse will put on gloves and then put lubricating gel on their finger. They will then put their finger inside your anus and rectum and feel for anything unusual, such as lumps.

After your examination

Once it’s done you can get up and get dressed. You’ll be able to leave as soon as you’re ready.

If your doctor or nurse finds anything unusual, they will refer you for more tests to examine your anus and rectum.