Prostate Exams for Teenage Boys: When, Why, and How

Prostate exams are primarily associated with middle-aged and elderly men. However, some parents may be surprised when a doctor recommends this screening for their teenage son. While still uncommon, there are a few medical reasons why a physician might recommend a prostate exam for a teenager or young adult. In this article, we will explore the medical rationale, techniques, risks, and benefits of prostate exams for teenage boys.

Introduction

Prostate exams are often associated with middle-aged and elderly men but some parents have been surprised when a doctor suggests this screening for their teenage son. While still uncommon there are a few reasons a physician may recommend a prostate exam for a teen or young adult. In this article well explore the medical rationale techniques risks and benefits of prostate exams for teenage boys.

Typical Age for First Prostate Exam

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that produces fluid for semen. It surrounds the urethra below the bladder.

Enlargement or conditions affecting the prostate are rare before age 40. Only 1 in 10000 men under 40 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Most major medical groups like the American Cancer Society recommend men at average risk start discussing prostate cancer screening with their doctor at age 45-50. Exams may begin at age 40-45 for those at higher risk due to family history or African American race.

Reasons a Teenage Boy May Need an Exam

Part of a comprehensive well-visit exam – If a teenage boy has never had a prostate exam a physician may include it as part of a thorough check-up. This establishes a baseline normal size and consistency for future reference. Abnormal PSA blood test – While not routine some doctors check PSA levels in younger patients. Elevated levels may warrant further investigation with a physical prostate exam. Urinary problems – Symptoms like dribbling after urination, frequent/urgent urination, trouble starting a stream or weakened flow can indicate an issue with the prostate. An exam helps determine if the prostate is inflamed or enlarged. Testicular exam reveals asymmetry or lump – The back of the prostate gland can be felt during a testicular exam. If an abnormality is discovered a doctor may then perform a formal prostate exam as well. Family history – If close male relatives had prostate cancer at a young age under 65 a doctor may start screening as early as 40 or on an individual basis.

The Prostate Exam Procedure

Before the Exam

The doctor will explain why the exam is recommended and address any concerns or anxiety. A consent form may need to be signed giving permission to perform the exam. The young man reviews medical history and urinary symptoms he’s experienced.

During the Exam

The patient undresses from the waist down and lies on his side, knees bent up towards chest. The doctor puts on gloves, applies lubricant to the gloved finger, and gently inserts it into the rectum. The doctor feels for lumps, asymmetry, firmness, or tenderness as they palpate the walnut-shaped prostate. The exam takes less than a minute. Mild discomfort is normal but should not be painful.

After the Exam

The doctor removes the glove and the patient can clean up and get dressed. The doctor explains if they felt any abnormalities and discusses follow-up care or recommendations. Recommendations for future testing or prostate health are discussed.

Potential Risks and Benefits

Benefits

Can detect prostate irregularities or enlargement needing further evaluation. Establishes a baseline size and shape for future comparison. Opportunity to discuss prostate health and cancer risks.

Potential Risks

Brief discomfort or anxiety. Small risk of infection or bleeding especially with prolonged exams. False positives leading to unnecessary follow-up procedures. No consensus on appropriate age to start screening.

Communicating with Your Teenage Son

Explain the rationale for the exam and how it quickly screens for problems. Encourage him to voice any worries or reluctance so you can address it. Avoid framing the exam as something to fear or making it taboo. Let your son know mild discomfort is normal but speak up if it’s painful. Emphasize the doctor is a medical professional doing a routine procedure that adults undergo.

While an abnormal finding would be the only reason to perform a prostate exam on a teenage boy, some physicians include it as part of a comprehensive well-visit check-up. Though uncommon under age 40, a doctor may recommend screening earlier for those with risk factors like family history or urinary problems. If your teenage son is asked to get a prostate exam, understand the examiner has valid medical reasons behind the request. Speak to your son to ease anxiety and convey it is a mature responsible act to undergo recommended health screening.

Conclusion

Prostate exams for teenage boys are uncommon but not unheard of in certain circumstances. If a doctor suggests the procedure for your son ask questions to understand the rationale while also preparing and reassuring your child. Anticipating mild discomfort or awkwardness goes a long way towards easing anxiety. While early screening is still debatable, prostate exams for males as young as teenagers do happen for valid reasons. Working as a team with your son’s doctor and having an open discussion with your child means the experience can be positive. If your teenage boy is asked to undergo this type of exam remember it is for their benefit and with the aim of keeping them healthy in the years ahead.