PSA test

Credit:

Multimedia Team - nhs.uk

The prostate is a small, walnut-size gland under the bladder and behind the penis. It produces a thick fluid that mixes with sperm to make semen.

Why a PSA test is done

A PSA test checks the level of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. High levels may be a sign of a prostate condition.

Testing may be recommended if you have symptoms that could indicate prostate cancer, such as:

• peeing more than usual, having a sudden urge to pee or getting up often in the night to pee
• blood in your pee
• problems getting or keeping an erection

If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it's easier to treat.

How to get a PSA test

Routine PSA testing is not offered on the NHS.

You may be offered a PSA test if a doctor thinks you have symptoms that could be prostate cancer.

If you’re having treatment for a prostate condition you may be offered regular PSA tests to check how the treatment is working.

Men aged 50 or over can ask their GP for a PSA test, even if they do not have symptoms. Anyone aged 50 or over with a prostate can ask for a PSA test.

There is a risk a PSA test result may not be accurate, and you may be offered tests and treatment you do not need.

You can discuss the benefits and risks of a PSA test with your GP.

Preparing for a PSA test

For 48 hours before your PSA test, do not:

• have anal sex
• ejaculate (come)
• do anything that leaves you out of breath, such as exercise

These can increase your PSA levels which could make the test less accurate.

You can eat and drink as usual before having a PSA test.

Having a PSA test

A PSA test is usually done at your local hospital or GP surgery, by a nurse or other healthcare professional.

PSA levels are checked with a blood test.

You may also have some other tests including:

• pee test
• a health professional feeling your prostate by putting a finger into your bottom (rectal examination)

Getting your PSA test results

You should get your PSA test results in 1 to 2 weeks.

If you do not hear anything after a few weeks, contact the GP surgery or hospital that did the test.

If you have a raised PSA level, you may then be offered another PSA test to check if your levels are still high.

If they are still high, your GP may discuss referring you to a specialist for further tests, such as a biopsy and an MRI scan.