You can expect your initial evaluation with a gastroenterologist to take around 45 minutes. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, family health history, and any treatments you've tried already. You should mention any medications you take and bring up allergies too. During the examination, the doctor may ask you to lie down and then will press down on your belly. You might be asked to cough or take deep breaths. If the doctor believes it's necessary, they might look for any bulges or masses in your rectum and check for muscle tone.