Diagnostic Test
Prostate & Physical Examination
A professional, hands-on prostate and pelvic health assessment—the first step for UK doctors to check urinary changes or an enlarged prostate. We provide specialist interpretation and targeted treatments. Book your consultation today.
Key Takeaways
- A professional, hands-on prostate and pelvic health assessment—the first step for UK doctors to check urinary changes or an enlarged prostate. We provide specialist interpretation and targeted treatments. Book your consultation today.
- We offer specialist interpretation and related treatments. Book a consultation to discuss your options.
Overview
About Prostate & Physical Examination
A clinical physical examination is a hands-on assessment where a doctor or urologist checks your abdomen, groin, and prostate gland. Because the prostate is tucked away inside the pelvis, it cannot be seen from the outside. The most important part of this check is the Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), where the clinician uses a lubricated, gloved finger to feel the back of the prostate through the wall of the rectum.
Test Information
Understanding Your Test
A detailed guide to your diagnostic procedure — from essential preparation and the purpose of the test to safety considerations and what to expect during the process.
The examination is usually done in two parts:
Abdominal Check: You will lie flat on a couch while the doctor gently presses on your tummy to check for any tenderness or a full bladder.
The Prostate Check (DRE): You will be asked to lie on your left side with your knees tucked up. The clinician will gently insert a lubricated finger into the "back passage." You might feel a brief urge to pee when the prostate is touched. The whole process is very quick, usually taking less than 60 seconds.
In any UK clinic or GP surgery, you are always entitled to a chaperone (a second staff member) to be present during the exam for your comfort and peace of mind.
Most men find the idea of the exam more worrying than the reality. It is generally described as "unusual" or "strange" rather than painful. The use of plenty of lubricant ensures the finger slides in easily. If you have an active infection (prostatitis), the area may be tender, so please let the doctor know so they can be extra gentle.
In the UK, this is the "gold standard" first step if you are experiencing "LUTS" (Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms)—such as waking up at night to pee, having a weak stream, or feeling like your bladder isn't empty. It allows the consultant to feel if your prostate is enlarged, smooth, or has any hard lumps. Combined with a PSA blood test, this exam gives a very clear initial picture of your prostate health.
At a glance
Preparation required
- Empty your bladder: It is often more comfortable to have the exam if you have recently peed, unless you are specifically having a bladder volume scan at the same time.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable trousers that are easy to remove or lower.
- Medical History: Be ready to talk about your specific symptoms, such as how many times you wake up at night or if you have noticed any blood in your pee.
- Relaxation: Try to take deep, slow breaths. Relaxing your pelvic muscles makes the DRE much easier and more comfortable.
Risks or considerations
- Physical Risks: There are no physical risks to this examination.
- Limitations: A physical exam can only feel the back and sides of the prostate. Small tumours in the middle or front of the gland may not be felt, which is why an mpMRI scan is often the next step if there is any doubt.
- Professionalism: Our clinical teams perform hundreds of these exams every year; they are a routine and vital part of men's healthcare in the UK.
What it can help diagnose
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation or infection that makes the gland feel tender or "boggy."
- Prostate Cancer: Identifying hard nodules or an irregular shape on the gland's surface.
- Bladder Distension: Feeling if the bladder is overly full because it isn't emptying properly.
- Groin Issues: Checking for hernias or scrotal lumps (like cysts or varicocoeles) that might be causing discomfort.
Our Commitment
Care you can trust
Every test is delivered to the same standard: senior consultants, a personalised plan, and the safety of an accredited private hospital behind you.
Consultant-Led Excellence
Receive evidence-based treatments delivered by senior NHS consultants in a professional, specialist setting.
Personalised Care Plans
Your consultant will design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your specific health goals and lifestyle.
Hospital-Grade Safety
We operate within leading private hospitals, adhering to strict CQC safety and technology standards.
A Heritage of Trust
Our partners bring decades of NHS and private experience, successfully managing thousands of patient cases.
Patient Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this test and what to expect
3 questions
Yes. Some prostate cancers do not raise PSA levels but can be felt as a hard nodule during a physical exam. Conversely, an enlarged prostate can be felt even if the PSA is stable. Both tools used together provide the most accurate picture.
Reviewed 2 Mar 2026
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This is a very common concern, but urologists perform these exams daily in a strictly clinical, professional manner. The body's response to pressure is unpredictable, but consultants are entirely unfazed by it. The focus is purely on your diagnostic health.
Reviewed 2 Mar 2026
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Please inform your consultant beforehand. While the exam can still usually be performed, they will take extra care or may use additional lubrication to ensure they do not cause irritation or bleeding to the sensitive area.
Reviewed 2 Mar 2026
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