How is a digital rectal examination performed (DRE)?
The physician places a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum. The prostate lies in front of the rectal wall. The prostate gland can be felt by pressing on the front wall of the rectum. This exam allows the physician to feel the back and the sides of the prostate gland. In certain circumstances, a persons prostate is so large that the full extent of it cannot be felt. If your primary care doctor feels an abnormality or a prostate nodule, you will likely be referred to a urologist.
