Prostate Exams

The American Cancer Society recommends that men discuss prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider, often beginning around age 40 to 50 depending on individual risk factors such as family history or ethnicity. Regular prostate exams can help detect potential problems early, when treatment may be most effective.

Routine screenings, combined with healthy lifestyle choices, can play an important role in supporting prostate health and identifying prostate cancer at an earlier stage. Speaking with a healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate screening schedule based on your personal risk factors.

Questions and Answers

What is a Prostate Exam?

A prostate exam is a routine evaluation performed by a urology specialist to assess prostate health and check for potential problems. Prostate screenings commonly include two primary components: a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): During a digital rectal exam, the physician gently inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. This allows the provider to check the size, shape, and texture of the prostate and identify any abnormalities.

PSA Test: The PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Small amounts of PSA in the blood are normal, and levels may gradually increase with age as the prostate enlarges. However, elevated PSA levels can sometimes indicate prostate conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or prostate cancer.

Together, these screening methods help physicians evaluate prostate health and detect potential issues at an early stage.

When Should I Have a Prostate Exam?

If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to prostate problems—such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine (hematuria), or pain during ejaculation—a prostate exam may be recommended as part of the diagnostic process.

Prostate exams are also commonly used for routine prostate cancer screening as men age. Many men begin discussing screening with their healthcare provider between the ages of 40 and 50, though the appropriate starting age can vary depending on individual risk factors such as family history or overall health.

After your initial screening, your urologist will recommend how often you should have follow-up exams. This schedule is typically based on factors such as your PSA levels, age, medical history, and overall prostate health.

How Do I Prepare for a Prostate Exam?

Before your appointment, your care team may provide specific instructions to help ensure accurate test results. In some cases, you may be asked to avoid sexual activity for a short period prior to a PSA test.

It’s important to inform your urologist about any medications you are taking, as certain drugs can affect test results. You should also let your provider know if you are experiencing conditions such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures so they can take steps to keep you as comfortable as possible during the digital rectal exam.

Prostate exams are typically quick and straightforward procedures. If you have questions about screening or would like to schedule an appointment, contacting your local office can help you arrange a convenient time for evaluation.