Physical examination – Male

Physical examination is an essential part of a comprehensive continence assessment (CCA)

Before undertaking a physical examination you must gain consent from the man.

The consenting process involves explaining to the man what is involved and ensuring that he understands what he is consenting to. You must also establish whether a chaperone is required.

The man should be made comfortable in a semi-recumbent, supine position for the examination which includes:

1. Visual examination of the penis and scrotum skin condition – looking for redness rashes, excoriation.

2. Visual examination of the penis and scrotum – looking for retracted penis, hypospadias, hydrocele or hernia which could cause functional problems.

3. Ask the man to contract his pelvic floor muscles and observe to see if the penis lifts up.

   If tightening around the base of the penis and/or lifting of the penis is observed, this indicates that the individual can identify and contract their pelvic floor muscles.

   If no tightening around the base of the penis or lift of the penis is observed, this suggests weak or no pelvic floor power.

4. Assessment of pelvic floor muscles by digital rectal examination.