I had posted this on another forum:
"maybe the most humiliating exam possible, still fascinates me... anyone else?
here's the description:
Evacuation Proctogram
Your doctor has requested an imaging study called an evacuation proctogram (also known as defecography). This study is used to help diagnose a wide range of pelvic floor problems, such as: [color=red]anal or pelvic pain, difficult defecation, sensation of incomplete emptying, constant sensation of a full rectum, constipation, feeling of "something" coming out of the anus or vagina as you strain, and leakage of stool[/color].
Before Arriving for Your Procedure
No special preparation is necessary for this procedure.
Because you will be asked to change into a hospital gown, please wear clothing that is easy for you to remove and put back on.
After Arriving
Before your exam, you will speak with one of our imaging physicians, who will discuss your symptoms and the procedure with you. Our physician will also answer any questions you may have.
During Your Procedure
You will be taken to a private room and asked to change into a hospital gown.
30 minutes before your exam you will be asked to drink six ounces of barium (a material that allows the imaging physician to see the details of your intestines).
You will be taken to an examination room, and asked to lie on your side on an exam table. The physician will inject a barium paste - about the consistency of toothpaste - through a tube into your rectum.
You will then be asked to sit on a special toilet, which will allow images to be taken during the process of defecation. Images and video will be taken with a fluoroscope, a type of moving-picture X-ray.
During the procedure you will be asked to pinch up the rectum, cough, strain and finally evacuate.
The exam takes approximately one hour.
After Your Procedure
Drink plenty of liquid for 24-48 hours. The barium may make your stool white for several days.
Your study will be read by the imaging physician and results sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours. Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health."