Anorectal physiology testing is used to assess anal and rectal function in patients presenting with symptoms of faecal incontinence. It is sometimes used in patients having difficulty defaecating. Testing is performed on outpatients and no preparation, sedation or anaesthesia is required. Tiny hollow tubes are inserted into the anus and used to measure the pressures in the rectum and anus. During testing, patients may be asked to cough, strain or squeeze in order to measure the response of the anal muscles to such manoeuvres. Other tests such as pudendal nerve assessment and rectal balloon filling may be performed. Your specialist will interpret the test results to help understand the cause and severity of your problem.