A prostate exam (digital rectal exam or DRE) is generally not described as painful for most men. It is more commonly associated with brief moments of pressure, discomfort, or an unusual sensation, often compared to the feeling of needing to have a bowel movement. The entire procedure typically lasts only 10 to 15 seconds.

Factors That Influence Sensation:

Prostate Condition: If the prostate is enlarged, inflamed (prostatitis), or otherwise abnormal, the exam may be more sensitive or uncomfortable.
Patient Anxiety and Tension: High anxiety can cause you to tense the muscles of the rectum and pelvic floor, which can increase discomfort. Relaxing your body and taking slow, deep breaths during the exam can significantly reduce this.
Clinician’s Technique: An experienced healthcare provider performs the exam quickly and with careful, gentle pressure.

Pain vs. Discomfort: While mild to moderate discomfort is common, sharp or severe pain is not normal. If you experience significant pain during the exam, you should immediately tell your doctor, as it could indicate an underlying condition that needs investigation.

For a look at another structured process with its own timeline, you can read about How soon after MEPS do I go to Basic?

For an external, medically-reviewed resource detailing what to expect and how to prepare, you can visit the Urology Care Foundation’s guide to the DRE.