[header] How to perform rectal palpation in cows and heifers [title] Confine the cow. [step] Put the female bovine to a squeeze chute or head-gate with gates on either side that prevents her from moving side-to-side. [title] Dress up. 
[step] An ob (obstetrical) suit or coveralls are best for this job. However, if you have old clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, then those will work fine as well.