Should You Poop Before a Prostate Exam? A Guide to Preparation

When preparing for a prostate exam, many people have questions about what to do beforehand. One of the most common, yet seldom-asked, questions is: "Should I poop before a prostate exam?"

This guide provides a straightforward answer and covers everything you need to know to feel prepared and at ease for your appointment.

Should I Poop Before a Prostate Exam? The Short Answer

The short answer is: it’s a good idea if you feel the need to, but it is not required. You do not need to force a bowel movement or take any special measures like using an enema for a routine digital rectal exam (DRE).

If you have the urge to go before your appointment, doing so can increase your comfort during the exam. An empty rectum can make the procedure slightly easier for both you and your doctor. However, if you don't feel the urge, there is no need to worry.

“No special preparations, such as fasting or enemas, are necessary before a routine digital rectal exam,” is the common advice from urologists. “If you feel you need to use the restroom beforehand, that’s perfectly fine — it might make you more comfortable. But don’t worry if you can’t go. Doctors are used to performing the exam under either circumstance.”

Healthcare professionals perform these exams frequently and understand that the rectum may contain stool. They wear gloves, use lubricant, and are not fazed by the normal state of the body. A small amount of stool does not interfere with their ability to feel the prostate.

Understanding the Prostate Exam Procedure

A digital rectal exam (DRE) is a physical examination to check the health of the prostate gland. The prostate is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. During a DRE, a doctor gently inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate's surface for any abnormalities like lumps, hard spots, or enlargement. The entire exam is very quick, usually lasting less than a minute.

Caption: During a digital rectal exam (DRE), a healthcare provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland, which lies just in front of the rectum and below the bladder.

What to Expect Step-by-Step

1. Positioning: You'll be asked to either bend over an exam table or lie on your side with your knees bent toward your chest.
2. The Exam: The doctor will use a lubricated, gloved finger to gently enter the rectum. They may ask you to take a deep breath to help relax your muscles. You will feel pressure, but it should not be painful.
3. Sensation: It is normal to feel an urge to urinate or have a bowel movement during the exam. This is just a result of the pressure on the prostate and rectum and will pass once the exam is over.
4. Completion: The doctor will slowly withdraw their finger. You will be given tissues to clean any excess lubricant.
5. Discussion: Your doctor will immediately discuss their findings with you. An abnormal finding does not automatically mean cancer; it simply indicates that further evaluation may be needed.

How to Prepare for Your Prostate Exam

The good news is that a DRE requires very little preparation. Here are some simple tips to help you feel ready.

• Bowel Movement: As discussed, use the restroom before your appointment if you feel the urge. If not, don't stress about it. Do not use laxatives or enemas unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
• Urination: Emptying your bladder beforehand can also increase comfort, as the prostate is near the bladder.
• Diet: You can eat and drink normally. There is no need to fast or change your diet.
• Hygiene: Normal daily hygiene, such as showering, is all that's required. Avoid using harsh soaps or creams in the anal area on the day of the exam.
• Relaxation: Anxiety can cause muscle tension, making the exam more uncomfortable. Try taking deep breaths to stay calm. Remember, it is a quick and routine procedure.
• Communication: Prepare any questions you have for your doctor. Being informed can help reduce anxiety. Be ready to discuss any urinary or prostate-related symptoms you've been experiencing.

What to Expect During and After the Exam

During the Exam

• Pressure: You will feel pressure, similar to the sensation of needing to have a bowel movement. This is normal.
• Discomfort: The exam is more often described as "uncomfortable" or "awkward" rather than painful. If you feel sharp pain, tell your doctor immediately.
• Embarrassment: It is normal to feel embarrassed. Remember that for your doctor, this is a routine and professional medical task focused on your health.

Immediately After the Exam

• You should feel fine to go about your day immediately.
• You may notice a tiny smear of blood on the toilet paper, especially if you have hemorrhoids. This is usually normal, but mention it to your doctor if it's more than a small amount.
• Your doctor will tell you their initial findings right away and discuss any next steps, such as a PSA blood test or referral to a urologist if needed.

A primary care physician notes: "Patients often apologize if they haven’t had a chance to use the bathroom. I always tell them: ‘Don’t worry at all. It doesn’t bother me, and it doesn’t hurt the exam.’ Our focus is on your prostate’s health."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Will I accidentally poop during the prostate exam?
A: It’s very unlikely. The sensation of pressure might make you feel like you need to, but accidental bowel movements are rare. Doctors are prepared for this possibility, and it is not a cause for concern.

Q2: What if I pass gas during the exam?
A: This is a normal bodily reflex. Medical professionals are completely unfazed by it.

Q3: Should I use an enema or laxative before a prostate exam?
A: No. For a routine DRE, enemas and laxatives are unnecessary and can cause irritation. Only use them if your doctor gives you specific instructions to do so.

Q4: Can I eat or drink before a prostate exam?
A: Yes. There are no dietary restrictions for a DRE.

Q5: Does a prostate exam hurt?
A: It should not be painful for most people. It is typically described as a feeling of pressure or discomfort that lasts less than a minute.

Q6: How long does a prostate exam take?
A: The actual DRE is very quick, usually lasting between 30 and 60 seconds.

Q7: At what age should I get a prostate exam?
A: Guidelines suggest discussing prostate cancer screening with your doctor starting at age 50 for average-risk men, 45 for high-risk men, and 40 for those at very high risk.

Q8: Are there alternatives to the DRE?
A: The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test is another key screening tool. The DRE and PSA test are often used together, as one can sometimes detect issues the other misses.

Conclusion

The main takeaway regarding the question, "Should I poop before a prostate exam?" is to prioritize your own comfort. While having a bowel movement beforehand can be helpful, it is not a medical requirement. Your doctor is a professional focused on your health and is prepared for any situation.

Don't let embarrassment or anxiety prevent you from this potentially life-saving screening. It is a quick, routine procedure that provides valuable information about your health. If you have concerns, communication with your healthcare provider is the best way to feel at ease.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, consider these reputable sources:

• Harvard Health: Prostate exam: What to expect
• MedlinePlus: Digital Rectal Exam
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
• American Cancer Society: Prostate Cancer Early Detection Guidelines
• National Cancer Institute: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.