Prostate Examination in London
A prostate examination is a short physical check that can provide useful information about prostate health. It is carried out discreetly and professionally by a consultant, often alongside a PSA blood test and other investigations where appropriate.
What is a prostate examination?
A prostate examination is sometimes called a digital rectal examination, or DRE. It involves your consultant gently examining the prostate through the wall of the back passage.
The prostate sits just in front of the rectum, so this examination allows the consultant to assess its size, shape and surface directly. It can provide information that a blood test alone cannot show, including whether the prostate feels enlarged, irregular or unusually firm.
It is understandable to feel apprehensive about the examination. It is brief and carried out with care, privacy and professionalism. Your consultant will explain why it has been recommended, what it involves and answer any questions before you decide whether to go ahead.
A prostate examination is one part of a wider assessment. It may be used alongside a PSA test, urine tests and imaging to build a fuller picture of your prostate health.
Information a blood test cannot provide
A prostate examination can complement other tests in several ways.
Direct assessment of the prostate
Your consultant can assess the size, shape, surface and texture of the prostate, which cannot be established through a blood test alone.
Quick and discreet
The examination itself takes only a short time and is carried out professionally, with your comfort and dignity in mind.
Part of the wider picture
When considered alongside PSA testing, symptoms and imaging where appropriate, it can help guide the next steps in your care.
Who a prostate examination may suit
A prostate examination may be recommended for men who:
- Are having a prostate health assessment
- Have urinary symptoms that need investigation
- Are arranging a proactive prostate check
- Have a raised or borderline PSA result
- Have a family history or other risk factors for prostate cancer
What to expect
- Explanation
Your consultant will explain why the examination has been recommended and what it involves. You can ask questions and decide whether you are happy to proceed. - The examination
The examination is brief. Your consultant will ask you to lie in a comfortable position, use a glove and lubricant, then gently examine the prostate through the rectum. - Findings in context
The findings will be considered alongside your symptoms, PSA result and any other investigations, such as an MRI scan, to guide the appropriate next steps.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for a prostate exam in London?
Adds useful clinical information
A prostate examination can identify features of the gland that cannot be assessed through a PSA blood test alone.
Brief and discreet
The examination is carried out professionally and sensitively, with your comfort and dignity respected throughout.
Consultant-performed
Your assessment is carried out by an experienced consultant urologist.
Clear information and consent
Your consultant will explain why the examination is recommended. Nothing will be carried out without your understanding and consent.
From examination to plan
A prostate exam is rarely used in isolation.
It forms part of a broader assessment that may include PSA testing and MRI where indicated.
Not every abnormality suggests cancer. Enlargement, benign nodules or asymmetry may have non-cancerous explanations. If further investigation is recommended, your consultant will explain why and what the next step involves.
Frequently asked questions
Is a prostate examination painful?
It is usually not painful, although some men find it briefly uncomfortable or embarrassing. Your consultant will carry out the examination gently, explain each step and prioritise your comfort.
Why might I need an examination if I have had a PSA test?
A PSA test and prostate examination provide different information. PSA measures a protein in the blood, while an examination can assess the size, shape and texture of the prostate. Together, they contribute to a more complete assessment.
Do I have to have a prostate examination?
No. Your consultant will explain why it may be helpful, but no examination is carried out without your consent.
How long does a prostate examination take?
The examination itself takes only a few moments and is usually performed as part of a wider consultation.
A complete, careful prostate assessment
A short prostate examination can provide valuable information as part of a wider prostate health check. Our consultant urologists can explain whether it is appropriate for you.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
