How do prostate exams work

Ask their insurance provider about coverage and whether there will be additional costs. The procedure usually requires the person to undress from the waist down. The specialist may instruct the person to lie on their left side and pull their knees up to their chest or to stand and lean against a table. A DRE is not usually painful, but it may be slightly uncomfortable. It takes only a few minutes to complete. However, there may be some bleeding from the rectum afterward, particularly if the person has hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

If bleeding persists or is significant, the person should contact their healthcare provider. The person may also undergo a PSA test on the same day.

If the doctor believes that further steps may be necessary, they will base this on the results of both the PSA and DRE. It is worth noting that a DRE often produces a false-positive result. If the doctor detects changes in the prostate gland, this does not necessarily indicate cancer. Prostate nodules can develop because of prostate cancer or other prostate-related conditions. Learn more about prostate nodules here.

This blood test measures the amount of PSA that the prostate gland produces. Some of this antigen leaks into the blood and will show up during testing.

High levels of PSA in the blood can indicate prostate cancer, but various other conditions and factors can raise PSA levels. High levels do not necessarily mean that cancer is present. The PSA test involves taking a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. The results indicate:. There is a 1 in 4 chance that cancer is present. The specialist will likely recommend more testing, including a prostate biopsy.

It is important to note that PSA levels can naturally vary from person to person. Some of the tests that might be done include:. For some men, getting a prostate biopsy might be the best option, especially if the initial PSA level is high. A biopsy is a procedure in which small samples of the prostate are removed and then looked at under a microscope. You may be offered some tissue or wipes to clean off the lubricant.

The whole procedure should take less than a few minutes from start to finish, and there are no special precautions that you need to take prior to the exam.

If any abnormalities are found during your DRE, your healthcare provider may order more tests, like an MRI of your prostate, and possibly schedule a prostate biopsy to see if there are any signs of cancer. If your screening is normal, your doctor may use the results of your PSA blood test to determine the timing of your future prostate cancer screenings.

PSA levels vary by age and other factors. Ultimately, you and your healthcare provider will decide how often you should be screened. Your family history, diet, health, and lifestyle habits are all factors that affect the recommended timing and frequency of your prostate cancer screenings. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your health.

Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Prostate Problems. National Institute on Aging. Jul 1, Eastham J. Prostate cancer screening.

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