Proctology

The most frequent complaints in the anal area are related to straining during bowel movements. Excessive pressure can disrupt the haemorrhoidal zone, which sits at the junction between the rectum and anal canal. When the connective tissue holding it in place is weakened or torn, it can prolapse through the anal opening — this is the condition we know as haemorrhoids.

Another consequence of excessive straining is anal fissures, which form when the lining of the anal canal tears. The high concentration of bacteria in the anal area can also give rise to inflammatory conditions, in which abscesses form in the affected tissue. Tumours — both benign and malignant — can also occur in the rectal area, which is another reason not to delay seeing a proctologist when any symptoms appear, or when your family medical history suggests a predisposition to conditions in this area.

The examining doctor will begin by taking a medical history, talking through your health background and current concerns. The examination itself is most commonly carried out in a kneeling position. Depending on the nature of the symptoms, we use a range of manual and visual assessment methods, including instrumented examinations such as rectoscopy and anoscopy, with the option of taking tissue samples where needed. Throughout the examination, we will keep you fully informed about each step and what you can expect to feel.

A routine proctological examination is not particularly painful and most clients manage it well despite the understandable psychological barrier of having such a sensitive area examined. Whatever brings you to us, you can count on a completely discreet approach. In the consulting room it is always just you and your doctor, and all clinic staff are specifically trained to handle sensitive situations with care and respect.