Ask final-year medical students which specialty they would like to pursue, and you’ll rarely—if ever—hear anyone mention proctology. This is understandable, to an extent, given the challenges and misconceptions surrounding this often misunderstood field.
Proctology comes with particular difficulties: caring for people who have experienced marginalization from their families and communities, and enduring skepticism—even ridicule—from fellow healthcare professionals. Unfortunately, many colleagues have dismissed the field due to its association with a part of the body often burdened by cultural taboos and discomfort.
The anatomy and function of the anal region, coupled with societal and moral beliefs passed down through generations, create significant barriers for both patients and practitioners.
Patients who visit a proctologist often come from communities that have faced stigma or prejudice: a homosexual person, an elderly individual who believes their condition is a form of divine punishment, a transgender patient filled with fear, a teenager trying to hide their condition from family, an HIV-positive person living in fear of exposure, or a sex worker afraid of being socially targeted.
Of course, many patients do not fall into these categories—but even they may feel embarrassed, fearful, or suspicious when visiting a proctologist. They worry about pain or discomfort during the examination and may carry emotional baggage due to societal shame.
After more than 30 years in the field, one thing is clear: proctology often places the physician face-to-face with people who have been marginalized or mistreated. Many patients view any anal condition as a humiliating experience, which is why an effective proctologist must offer far more than clinical expertise—they must bring emotional strength, empathy, and humanity.
Working in this field takes courage, patience, and deep understanding. Success relies not only on clinical skill but on warm, non-judgmental communication. Humor is a valuable tool. Respect for human diversity must be non-negotiable.
Ultimately, proctology is more than a medical specialty. It is a deeply human, multidimensional practice—one that honors both body and soul.
