Digital Rectal Examination

Digital rectal exam

A digital (finger) rectal examination checks for problems in organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower abdomen. During a digital rectal examination, your doctor puts a lubricated, gloved finger of one hand into the rectum.

Current as of: March 22, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Jimmy Ruiz MD - Hematology, Oncology