A standard part of every physical examination at male physical is the urethral swab. What stands out is how much the reactions of male patients become the focus. The doctor knows full well that this procedure is considered particularly painful for many – or, at the very least, ensures that it is, by inserting the swab stick especially deep into the penis. Notably, in older videos, he used to push the swab tube much deeper into the penis than he does nowadays.
Then there’s the highly exposing position: the patient lies on his back, arms folded behind his head, armpits visible, hands far away from the genital area, legs spread wide – the penis completely exposed and the clear center of attention. The position required is maximally uncomfortable and vulnerable.
It’s also one of the few steps in the exam during which the doctor actually speaks with the patient. He asks whether they’ve had this kind of swab before and warns that it might “burn a little.” But no one gets to opt out – there are no exceptions.
And yet, this step in the examination seems to enjoy a certain popularity – likely because of its impact and the peculiar dynamic it creates between doctor and patient.
Perhaps it’s the voyeuristic element itself – the act of observing a patient in pain – that makes it so compelling.
