Aa
Cursory Annual Physical Exam
I'm a 49 year old male with a history of prostrate cancer in my family (father). I have seen the same PCP for about 6 years. In my exams I have asked whether I need to have a digital rectal exam annually and the response has been that give my father was age 64 when he had it, it is not necessary until age 50. She does order tests for me PSA which come out normal. She seems a bit cursory on the physical exam. She does not examine or palptate anything below my underwear other than a quick look at the top of my buttocks for skin cancer. She does not check for hernias or frankly ever seen my genitalia. She is my first female PCP and every physician I have seen prior to her since childhood. has included these exams. My prior physician who retired started issuing rectal exams on the safe side well before 40. She does in fact spend time talking to me so it is not a matter of being rushed. If I had to guess she seems overly sensitive to my modesty. Nonetheless to make it worth booking an appointment I'd like exams to be thorough. I am certainly not going to ask for these exams. Is it unusual for them not to be included given my demographic?
I would imagine that you'd complain about something like a hernia. If you don't notice or report symptoms, what is she to look for? You are a fairly young man. I don't think she is shy or reluctant but in a physical, they expect you to bring up issues. If you don't, they do the basic check of that area. Do you suffer health anxiety?
Yes, it is unusual, but I believe that you have misunderstood her reluctance about fully examining you and interpreted it as "shyness". I tend to think she doesn't KNOW you well enough to believe that you will not scream "rape" if she examines as thoroughly as she should. I would urge you to ask her to include the genital exams when she does her physical work-ups. Tell her it will ease your concerns about your overall health if she does. She can request a nurse or an orderly to be present when she examines you.
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