Preparation

The patient should lie on their left side with their buttocks to the edge of the couch and their knees drawn up to the chest. This is the left lateral position. It ensures that the pelvis is a true vertical.

Explain to the patient that examination will be performed using a gloved finger onto which will be placed lubricating jelly.

Explain that aspects of the procedure may be uncomfortable but that co-operation is essential for examination to be maximally informative.

Ensure that lighting within the room is adequate to enable proper inspection of the perineum.