re: Saw palmetto: Did it work for you?

Taking Saw Palmetto is not a replacement for a prostate exam. There is nothing wrong with trying it if you have an enlarged prostate that's causing you problems (namely- urinary frequency/urgency). There are some actual (meaning FDA approved) medications that are pretty good as well.

Second time: This isn't a replacement for a prostate exam. You're more than welcome to decline, but there's not a good, reliable test to detect prostate cancer. And if you're having symptoms related to the prostate, there isn't a better way to gauge its involvement (as opposed to some other process) than with a physical exam. It's uncomfortable for the patient. The doctor doesn't love doing it, either. But it's with your best interest in mind. Try finding a doctor with small fingers.