A rectal examination is where a doctor or nurse uses their finger to check for any problems inside your bottom (rectum). It's usually very quick and you shouldn't feel any pain.

When a rectal examination may be needed A rectal examination is sometimes needed to investigate: bleeding from the bottom

pain in the bottom

constipation

being unable to control when you go to the toilet (incontinence) – including bowel incontinence or urinary incontinence Men sometimes need a rectal examination to check for problems with the prostate. What is the prostate? The prostate is a small gland that only men have. It: produces fluid that mixes with sperm to create semen

often gets larger with age

may cause problems with how easily you pee and how often you need to go

Before having a rectal examination Your doctor or nurse should explain what's going to happen and why you need a rectal examination. They'll know that some people can feel embarrassed, but it's a common procedure. Let the doctor or nurse know if: you'd prefer a man or woman to perform the examination

you'd like someone else in the room – it could be a friend, family member or another doctor or nurse

you have severe pain in your bottom – they may be able to use local anaesthetic to numb the area