You’ll probably get a care sheet from your urologist. Maybe you found a website with a list of possible side effects on the internet. Beyond that, there aren’t a lot of reports with personal experiences from a prostate biopsy. Probably for obvious reasons. Most guys don’t want to talk about it. Some are just too tough or too cool to tell it like it really is. With a careful Google search, you can find some personal experiences on the procedure. There are even a few horror stories. If you’re squeamish when reading about unpleasant medical complications, STOP READING NOW!
According to the link above from the Mayo Clinic, here’s the original summary from 2009 of what to expect:
After a prostate biopsy, you’ll probably need to continue taking an antibiotic for a few days. You may feel slight soreness and have some light bleeding from your rectum. You may have blood in your urine or stools for a few days. You may also notice that your semen has a pinkish tint caused by a small amount of blood in your semen. This can last for more than a month.
The first part is pretty much right on the money, in my experience. It’s that last part that may not be completely accurate. In fact, a number of respectable institutions fail to mention this issue at all on their information. Here’s the squeamish part. A pinkish tint doesn’t begin to describe it. Initially, we’re talking dark, blood red, as if you have a serious medical problem. Now, there’s no pain or discomfort involved, the systems works just like normal in that regard, it’s just disconcerting to see it. Your wife, girlfriend or other woman may not be as sympathetic about this sort of thing as you’d like, given that they have dealt with a similar issue since puberty. Even so, you should probably consider having condoms on hand and using them.
This may not be the case with all men after a biopsy, but it doesn’t seem uncommon from what I’ve read. I find it interesting that I wasn’t once told about this possibility and it wasn’t on my care sheet, either. You’d think they’d at least mention it to avoid getting panic calls from guys who didn’t do a little research before the procedure. Well, if you’re going for a biopsy, consider yourself warned. Maybe it won’t happen to you. I hope not!
Also see my guide for recovery, side effects and complications from my second biopsy, and read the hundreds of comments with personal experiences from other men below.
For those looking for worst case scenarios, like infections or spreading cancer, you can find that too. These are some of the things that worried me enough to postpone my biopsy in the first place. Some websites go overboard, perhaps trying to use fear as a motivator to get you to consider their alternatives. It’s a powerful motivator, but however small, there are some serious risks that should be considered. For most men, the complications are minimal. A little pain, some blood and obviously the anxiety of waiting for results. Nonetheless, I think patients should be made aware of all possible risks so they know if they need medical attention or not.
Originally published Mar 9, 2009. Minor update, March 9, 2019.
My biopsy was very uncomfortable some cores hurt more than others.I got home went to take a piss and plop,out came a huge blood clot followed by another.I called my uro he said it was normal,but to call if it continues.
Later that day I thought I was going to have diarrhea,but it turned out to be blood,very disgusting.Luckily that didn’t last long.I do remember urinating blood for about a week at beginning of stream.
6 weeks after first biopsy.Semen has almost returned to normal.As time has progressed it went from red/purple 2 weeks after biopsy to brown/yellowish.I’m much happier now that it is somewhat normal.It does seem to be less quantity than I remember,but not positive.
Lucky me,I now get to start all over tomorrow.I get my 2nd biopsy 7 weeks to the day,due to hg pin and asap.Maybe it’ll be clear again by the new year,if I’m lucky.I can live with that.If not I’ll have much bigger problems to deal with.
I’m only 40 so I’d never even given prostate cancer a thought.
I can only hope by the time my 2 sons get to adulthood they can come up with better tests.
Good luck to all.
I got my results back today. I have prostate cancer at a level 6. I have not had a chance yet to digest everything yet. So I don’t even have a clue what is going to happen next.
Hi Ed- I’m sorry for your bad news. I wish you the best for a complete recovery in whatever treatment option you choose.
Had my biopsy on Oct. 20th. I am 57 years old. My PSA had gone up to 4.6 (from 3.2, 6 months ago), I had been experiencing urinary symptoms (slow start, weak flow, long dribbling finish, feeling of not completely emptying), and my father and uncle (mothers brother) had both recently died from advanced prostate cancer. My urologist felt that I am at higher risk, and that a biopsy was a good idea. He explained the after-effects, i.e. blood in the urine, stools and ejaculate for up to 10 days. He gave me “no restrictions” at all for activity of ANY KIND after the procedure. The procedure was uncomfortable, but not at all painful, however, I definitely had no desire to do any activity for the rest of the day, and just rested. Felt normal the next day. Dr. called me the NEXT DAY (!) with lab results, all benign.
I had a little blood at the start of urination for 3 days, a little blood on the t.p. after the first bowel movement only, and blood red ejaculate 3 days after, again 6 days after, and 8 days after it was only pinkish in color. No pain or problems with erection or ejaculation. I have been experiencing worsened urinating symptoms, however, that I haven’t seen described in other men’s stories. My flow is about half as strong as before (which was then only about half as strong as normal). I plan to call my urologist in the morning for advice, as I don’t know if this is a common side effect of biopsy or not, or if it is temporary or…
I saw my dad suffer (really suffer) an agonizing and painful death from advanced prostate cancer and plan to watch my prostate health VERY CAREFULLY and make use of all medical options available to me, as well as knowledge gleaned from sites such as this, and others.
Best of luck to everyone who reads this.
It’s been three weeks since my operation (Radical Perineal Prostatectomy). I’m still pretty sore but It’s getting better everyday. I wear depends with one of the wife’s maxi-pads (cut in half) inside. I usually change the pad 2 or 3 times a day. I wear depends at night but I don’t leak at all while lying down. I get up about twice a night to pee. I started the kegals 2 weeks before my surgery hoping that it would help with incontinence. I’ve tried to do the kegals since the operation but I’m still to sore to do them. I drove for the first time today with no problems.
I go in for a psa test on Friday and I have a Dr’s appt next Tuesday. I’m hoping the psa test results are low.
I hope to return to work in a couple of weeks. I’m 62 yrs old and I drive a bus for the elderly.
Good luck to all
Good luck to all. It has been a couple weeks since the operation. I am back to work, and wearing more pads than my wife ever wore before the change. Very difficult to do the kagel exercisis, and everytime I cough, I urinate a bit.
I boild it down to this:
(1) PSA test, decision on what to do.
(2) Biopsy, mine was painless, but some are not, resulte require more decisions.
(3) DiVinci robotic surgery, not too bad, itching during healing process, staple removal not a problem, avoiding scratching off scabs is a problem.
(4) Having to wear pads and Depends not really a bad thing, pads in underware during day, w/Depends at night. Wake up during night about 3 times to urinate, but if less, I will wet the bed, so I sleep on a towel.
(5) Recovery from surgery should take 3 months, but as I am lazy, it might take longer. No problems related to all of this other than the leaking of urine, and any other problems I bring on myself.
Bottom line: Most men will develop Prostrate Cancer, each doctor does things differently, I wish you all the best of luck, and God’s blessings on you and your doctor. My opinion is take the damn thing out and put it in a jar, it is better to have the cancer in a jar than in me!
I am 50 yrs old. I had my first PSA test about a month ago during a routine physical. It was 4.9. I have a family history of prostate problems, but no prostate cancer as far as I know. My doctor sent me to a urologist to get checked. He did the DRE and found no abnormalties. So he suggested another PSA to verify the findings. It was 4.9. So we scheduled a biopsy. I had it on friday the 21st.
For my procedure, they gave me an IV anesthesia. It knocked me out completely. When I wock up I couldn’t remeber anything. The next day, my butt was sore but not bad and I was peeing blood. The second day all was well. Today however, I am peeing more blood and get a burning in my penis before/after peeing. Not to bad though. I am also light headed today.
I am suppossed to get my results by the 28th.
Just wanted to post an update.
Biopsy was performed on October 7th (see my posting above).
No more blood in the urine.
No blood in semen for the past few days, though sometimes it is a little “rusty” colored.
I’ll post again in another week with hopefully a good report that semen has returned to normal!
I am 57 years old and had a biopsy on Thursday. My PSA level went from 4.5 to 5.9 in 4 months. The procedure was about a 4 on the pain scale. I had 8 biopsies and on the 5th and the 7th I felt stinging/burning in my uretha. The Dr. did not seem to be concerned. I forgot what he actually said..my mind was elsewhere. Urinated in the Dr.’s office with a tiny blood clot (size of a grain of rice). My wife drove me home. My Dr. told me it would feel like someone kicked me up my ass. Boy, was he right !! I iced above my anus (ice cubes in a plastic bag, dishtowel to cover). 20 minutes 4 or five times a day. No blood to this point in my bowel movements. Three days later, what an eyeopener when I urinated. I had just taken a about a mile walk on a flat surface. I felt good for a half mile and then noticed a dull pain around my anus. I thought I must have aggravated it by walking. That night I had two blood clots as big as a nickle, with lots of blood and stinging in the penis. I peed 3 or 4 times, no blood and no stinging. Today, 4 days later blood started again, very lightly, (size of a grain of rice). This lasted throughout the day, off and on. Drinking lots of water seems to help. Wish I had been given clearer instructions on limiting physical activity. I had been told to take it easy for a couple days, which I did. My reccomendation is even when you feel good and have no pain, take it easy for a couple more days. Also, try not to put pressure on you butt, lay on your sidein bed.
I went to the doc’s on Oct 11th to the get the catheter removed after my Perineal Prostatectomy. I urinated three times that afternoon and then I couldn’t urinate anymore. Went to the ER at 2:00am to have a catheter inserted (very Painful).
I was also very constipated due the pain meds (Vicoden) I had been taking. It took a couple of days to get unstopped up. I went back to the Doc’s on Oct 14th to get the catheter removed again (this wasn’t fun the first time and the second time wasn’t any better). It’s now Saturday evening Oct 15th and so far I’ve been urinating O.K. I’m very anxious about not being able to urinate again, I don’t want to have that catheter inserted again. Right now I have a lot of soreness and my drain hole is still draining even though the drain tube has been removed.
On a positive note the Doc reviewed the Pathology report and said the margins were negative (finally some good news). I go back to see the Doc on Tueaday to discuss the full report and see where we go from here.
I’m sceduled for a biopsy this coming Monday after PSA readings of 4.7 and just over 5. After a digital exam the speacialist doing the procedure says my prostate feels smooth and normal but still prescribed a biopsy.
I must admit after reading these accounts my confidence is a little shaken but what choice do I have?
Jim, Ray and anyone else with recent surgery or diagnosis, I wish you the best of luck with your treatment and recovery!
Jim: I wish you the very best. There is much to be hopeful about in post op. recovery and even in recurrence or spread. Therapies like IMRT and CK have proven effective in these cases. I’ve been in consultations as to how to treat my own cancer. Fortunately, I have some time and will go in for a CT scan and MRI before I make any decision. I respect your strength and willingness to share your experience. It really helps us all to come to grips with these life decisions and realize we are not alone, and that we can fight and beat this opponent.
I had my Perinal Prostatectomy on Wednesday (Oct 5th). Came home the next day. I’m pretty sore from the operation but I’ve been taking vicodin and that seems to help alot. The catheter is taking some getting use to. It’s very uncomfortable making it hard to get any sleep. I’m going in next Wednesday to get it removed. I’ll meet with the Dr. in two weeks to go over the pathology report. I hope it hasn’t spread beyond the prostate. I’m glad the operation is over with and I hope I made the right decision. I’ll keep you updated. Good Luck To All.
Had biopsy (12 samples) taken Monday October 3rd. Wasn’t painful at all, just a bit uncomfortable having your ass opened up for the 10 minutes or so that it took to get the samples.
Blood in urine each day, though it seemed like there would be more later in the day versus in the morning. No blood in stool.
Today I masturbated for the first time and, thank goodness I had read all the postings here prior to doing it. As expected, blood was ejaculated. It seemed to be ALL blood and no semen (though of course it’s just blood mixed in with the semen).
I’m not thrilled that it seems like I won’t be back to having “normal” colored semen for at least a few weeks, if not months, but, I guess there’s nothing to do about it.
I also got my results back today. No cancer.
Oh, and just some other info: 47 years old, father who is 72 was treated for prostate cancer last year with hormones. My PSA over the past year went from 2 to 3 to 4 and then 3 months after the test that came back as a 4, I had a 13 PSA. That’s what prompted the biopsy. They took another blood sample right before doing the biopsy and that came back as 4.
Glad I went ahead and did the biopsys – had it done at UCLA’s Department of Urology. Great people, fantastic facility, probably one of the best in the USA if not the world.
Will stop by here from time to time to post how I am doing with the blood in the urine / blood in the semen thing. Now I’m going to sleep and hope I don’t wake up in the morning covered in blood because I masturbated just a few hours ago and had all that blood come out! :-))))
I’m age 54, never had an issue with prostate. My PSA level was low, need to clarify there point system. My physical exam yielded a raised area on the prostate, that is why I went in.
Had a 15 core biopsy today, was given Cipro 1/2 hour before, Doctor was in, took his time, 3 shots of pain numbing agent, very minor pain with these. The core sampling was pretty much painless, 1 stung a little. Having been through 6-7 colonoscopies, this procedure was pretty easy, keep in ming I was awake for this, the colonoscopy was always put under. Hopefully my results are good, glad to have this over, the wondering was worse than the actual procedure. 4 hours later my urination is painless, very little blood, of course my bowl released a good bit of blood, not worried there, tested the Semen output, plenty of blood there and Not a Good Idea, ouch, thought I’d be proactive and make sure the semen plumbing is operational, yes it was but the muscle contractions made me know I just had 18 individual pokes there, will wait a few days to test this function.
Jim and Rich: Thanks, I finally got into the doctor they prescribed more antibiotics to combat the runs I have been experiencing from the initial antibiotics. They did more blood test and a fecal test. But the best news was my biopsy showed no cancer. Thanks to you guys I have a new cause, I have put the word out this cancer needs to be beat and the only way is for more people to talk about it. I am so glad I found this blog and I thank most the blogger who brought us together.
Joe and others: At post biopsy consultation I learned that my Gleason 6 was based on a 3+3 primary/secondary grade summation. Also, that this is the lowest Gleason on a scale of 6 to 10. Lucky me, lol. Because of my age, near 72, and the slow growing nature of my cancer, my options boil down to either “watchful waiting” or Cyberknife “CK” radiation. The entire range of therapies was discussed including the “gold standard” of robotic prostatectomy and brachytherapy as well as other forms of radiation and hormonal treatment, before boiling things down to the two alternatives.
I’m due for a CK consult next week. For those of you with early stage diagnoses, I recommend researching the CK option on the web. It’s advantages are that it is non invasive, confined to about a week of exposures and with minimal effects of ED and incontinence. The only caveat is that the data is as yet undefined with respect to long term prospects of recurrence.
Having gone through 3 biopsies, and with a highly enlarged prostate, the watchful waiting option doesn’t seem attractive to me. For one thing, it is passive and doesn’t attack the known cancer. Moreover, it requires quarterly monitoring and at least an annual biopsy, which would make my already perforated prostate even more unhappy. Neither do I like the prospect of having a “worry overhang” constantly present as to whether the cancer is progressing more rapidly. More to come after my consult.
Went in for my pre-op today. I’m all set for my Perinal Prostatectomy next wednesday (oct 5th). Not looking forward to the operation, but I’ll be glad when it’s over. I’m scheduled to have the catheter removed on Oct 12th and a follow up with the Dr. on Oct 19th. Good Luck To All
Quick update. There was no cancer in my biopsy so I’m relieved. They will monitor my PSA over the next few months.
Joe, good luck and hang in there. Sounds like you have a good attitude.
Lee, personally I didn’t have a lot of diarrhea but I’ve heard it can be due to the antibiotics. You might want to avoid most diary products. 10 days is a long time and you really need to see a doctor just in case.
I took Bactrim and that was tough on my body. At times I had sweats, light headedness and one morning woke up at 4am shivering from cold (I live in AZ and my room was 78 degrees). Since I’ve been off the Bactrim I’ve felt much better.
Both Sunday and Monday I still had some blood in the urine (almost a week after the procedure). The doctor said that was ok. It still freaks me out and I am tentative everytime I visit the bathroom. I still haven’t tried to ejaculate. Due to the way I was feeling and the worrying it was the last thing on my mind.
Feeling spent here. Previously posted had the biopsy. Finallyback on the bike riding to and back from work. The unfortunate part it has been 10 days of diarrhea. Frustrated with military doctors not returning calls and when I finally reach one he thinks I am having anxiety waiting for results. Not really not worried or even thinking about it. I have readnon the net, sometimes diareaha can happen after taking antibiotics as they prescribed before, during and the day after the biopsy procedure. Any you guys experienced this? Well gotta run…literally.
Had a PSA of 25 in early september, which my doc called “disturbing.” Urologist scheduled a biopsy and ran a repeat PSA, which was 15.5. Upon DRE, my prostate was very large, moreso on the right than the left side. My biopsy showed no cancer but evidence of inflammation, so he put me on Cipro for 30 days. The message is that even a shockingly high PSA does not necessarily mean you have cancer. But the only way to tell is to have the biopsy. It isn’t that big a deal, although the after effects can be a bit unpleasant for a day or two. God bless all you guys, and here’s hoping the best for you all.
All:
As usual, I droped in to see what is going on. Have had a couple bad days trying to get doctors to get their acts together. In my original entry I said 8 of 12 on the biopsy were cancer, Wrong, 4 of 12, as usual, my wife understood incorrectly, and of course, as life has it, it was all my fault!
Going into the hospital tomorrow morning for 5 boring days while they take me off Plavix so they can remove the prostrate. Then my time in the hospital wil depend upon whether I bleed a lot or not. I don’t anticipate a lot of bleeding. Normally myinsurance codes this as a 23 hour operation (outpatient), so I “assume” it can’t be much of a big deal. Think I would be more scared to have somebody put radio active pillu into my bodt! Would my testicles glow in the dark? (lol)
After all is aid and done, I will drop in again to let you all know what it was like, and my status.
Rember:
1. If you have it, you have it, don’t panic, get it taken care of!
2. Ask for drugs, God gave man knowledge and doctors can get you numbed out so long as your insurance pays for it, no need to put up with pain, we get enough in lie!
3. Don’t fret, if you get it, you get it, and most men will get it, you can blame, God, polution, stress, your upbringing, bad genes,etc. but who needs to place blame, just get it fixed and go about your life!
Good luck and spiritual guidance to all your doctors, may you all be able to return to this site and tell us of your experiences, they make for good and important reading. I found comfort with them, and newcommers should also.
MGBWY
Joe in Georgia
I’m 48. My father had prostrate cancer in his 60s (still alive today). Back in late July I had some urination problems and during sex when I ejaculated the flow felt like it was blocked. I saw a doctor where I was given Cipro and some meds for a urinary infection and took a blood test.
It wasn’t a urinary infection and the PSA was high (14). I say another doctor and was told to take the Cipro for a month and then get another PSA. My symptoms seemed to disappear. The Cipro did a number on my appetite. Loss about 8 lbs. My second PSA was lower but high (7). The DR wanted to do a biopsy.
I’ll be the first to say I’m squeamish on medical stuff. I had the biopsy done. I didn’t notice any real pain but I got even more worried when I could hear the DR talking about my bleeding was more than average and it was dripping out of my rectum. Anyhow I gutted it out. At the end the DR had to apply pressure to some area of the rectum to stop the blood flow, which was successful.
Then I was told I could get dressed. I slowly got up but I think when I leaned over to tie my shoes I got VERY lightheaded I had never passed out previously from anything), then drenched in sweat and finally gave up fighting it and gently called out “Hello” a couple of times and fortunately a nurse heard me.
She called for some help and the three of them got me to lie down and took my blood pressure (something like 70/40). After resting and drinking some water and coke I started to feel better. Fortunately my GF drove me so I didn’t have to drive home myself.
At home I felt better as the day went on. After I took another Bactim (I was switched from Cipro to Bactrim) around 6pm I began to feel bad. I would get sweaty but no real fever (99 or below) off and on.
Initially my urination was fine but since Sunday night (my procedure was on a Tuesday) I’ve seen blood in the urine off and on. The first 3 bowel movements were nasty and scared me. Since Friday I haven’t had any bowel issues just the bloody urine (which scares me).
Personally I think the Bactrim is tough on my body. I’m glad I’m off it. Thursday morning I woked up at 4am shivering/freezing and my GF put several blankets on me. As the day went on I felt better. Since I’ve been off Bactrim (Friday) I feel better.
I had a 3rd PSA test done on the day of the biopsy. It was lower but still high (5). At least it is going down. Now I’m on pins and needles waiting for the phone call that can be life changing. Certainly, as everyone here knows, it is a VERY stressful time for everyone.
Good Luck to everyone. The biopsy side effects were worse than I had expected although if you aren’t too squeamish maybe it isn’t that bad for you.
Rich
Had the biopsy a couple of weeks ago. Gentlemen, it’s not nearly as bad as it sounds. Indignant? Yes. However, You’re in and out pretty darn quick. When they take the samples, it’s not painful. No blood in urine, but semen was another story. Looked like “Mr Happy” was bleeding like a stuck pig. Again, that appears to be the norm. Just got word that 2 of 12 core samples are positive for cancer. PSA was at 1.4 had has been slowly rising over the last couple of years. Go for 1st consult today, to find out options.
I’m a 55 year old white male, with no history of prostate cancer on paternal side. Fairly common on maternal side.
Bottom line, don’t fear the biopsy. Get ‘er done! Jerry
I am new to this—60 years old. I am in excellent health.PSA was always under 2.0. It was 1.4 in July of 2010. The in July, 2011, it jumped to 2.1. Having it taken again two months later, it had jumped to 2.6
DRE was normal…but biopsy is scheduled for this Friday…primarily due to accleration of the PSA over 14 months plus a history of my Uncle having prostate cancer (both father and grandfather never had that affliction)
Reading this blog–it looks like a journey…Hopefully with a negative result and good ending
I wish everyone the best
I had a prostate biopsy yesterday (first one – because of a PSA of 9), and was quite relieved to find that it was as nearly painless as the nurse told me it would be. The pressure of the ultrasound probe was a bit annoying but not at all painful. The two shots of xylocaine hurt just a little, and much less than the novacaine shots that I get at the dentist’s office. The needle “shots” that collect the tissue specimens – I could barely feel them at all. My doctor allowed a good 5 or 10 minutes for the xylocaine to kick in – I have a feeling that this delay helped a lot. I felt light-headed afterwards, because of the anesthetic, and my bottom was sore. But six hours later, I was comfortable enough to sit at the dinner table, and this morning I feel pretty much back to normal. I know some other guys have had rougher experiences. Hopefully my experience is more the norm.
No sedative, toughed it out. I didn’t want to bother anyone driving me home after the procedure. I was light headed after sitting back up on the table. Sat it out for twenty minutes until I felt competent to drive. The indignity of the thing was the worst part.
Somewhat painful discomfort lasted about six hours. No blood in urine. No rectal bleeding. But that semen in the red blood effect being reported is most disconcerting; haven’t found any mention that it’s a dangerous situation.
I suppose it’s a ‘closed system’ so the blood doesn’t coagulate in there. But, if it’s stagnate pool, I cannot imagine it’s a healthy situation.
Had it done 3 days ago. Worst medical experience of my life. (and I’ve had over 20 kidney stones!) The injection was painful and didn’t numb it very well. The first sample was uncomfortable, the next 3 got progressively more painful. The 5th, I about jumped off the table. He gave me more lidocaine, but it only took the edge off. I was sick to my stomach and dizzy for about 4 hours. Felt like I’d been raped. It was humiliating and painful. No blood in urine, haven’t had sex yet, so I don’t know about the semen. Blood and a big blood clot out the back end. Sure don’t want to ever go through that again. At least give me a couple of valium next time.
Don: I wish you a speedy recovery. I got my “saturation” biopsy results, yesterday, with a finding cancer in 2 of 20 cores. Combined with 12 prior cores last June it amounts to 2 in 32, with a Gleason of 6. I was told that the cancer is the slowest growing and am grateful for that. My doc and I will review a variety of alternatives, ranging from watchful waiting to prostatectomy.
Lee…good luck on the results
First off, thanks everyone for the input. I am 52 and within a two week time period i showed an elevated PSA level from 2.0 to 2.76,. The doctor recommended the biopsy for piece of mind, so i went along with that advice. Yesterday I finally had the biopsy procedure done. The anxiety was there and it did not help there was some delays during the start up procedure when the sonogram would not view anything when they inserted up my behind. . Everything what everyone said would happen did. The item they put up your rectum was uncomfortable. The first two shots stinged. The inhale/exhale bit and then the snip nerve wracking but after 12 samples was glad it was over. No pain sitting. I drove myself home and then was scarred to urinate or take a dump for fear of seeing blood. First evening, first pee was a tinge of pink. Next two pees clear. I am still feeling tight in the stomach from that breath in and out procedure but overall feeling a-ok. Now I am wide awake after sleeping four hours, so there will be no production at work today. We shall see how today goes. Doctor stated he would call me personally with results in about 7 days.
Tuesday the 20th is THE DAY. Radical Prostatectomy via the Da Vinci machine. More concerned with the after effects than the surgery itself. For the record I am 52 and it could be that an elevated PSA along with a biopsy will save my life. If you have an elevated PSA DO NOT ASSUME ITS NOT CANCER – LIKE I DID. Bite the bullet and get the biopsy could be it will save your life as well!
I’m less than three weeks away from my radical Perinal Prostatectomy. I’m going in for pre-op testing on the 28th. I’m anxious to get the operation over with and hopeful the follow up PSA test will be low.
Ben: The reality is that PSA’s are a very unreliable indication of potential cancer. Elevated PSA’s can be caused by infection of the prostate, having sex the day of the blood test, the results of medication such as anti histamines. In general, urologists look to establish a “baseline” PSA based on test results over a period of time. They then look for a gradual or sudden increase in the PSA and, based on the patient’s age, history and size of the prostate determine the need for biopsy. I’m 71 and have no baseline because my PSA’s are usually high and all over the board. But the sudden increase in PSA from 8 to 16 over 4 months was more than enough to justify my biopsy las June. I’ve had another just over a week ago, not based on PSA but on a finding of HGPIN. My doctor was aggressive and wanted more biopsy data to support a more certain prognosis.
Bottom line is that none of us can rely on PSA alone, since cancers can be found in low PSA’s as well as high. Family history of prostate cancer justifies a very early PSA test regimen, starting at age 40 or even earlier. We all spin off different symptoms, histories and test results and it’s up to the urologist to evaluate and recommend the appropriate course of testing and treatment.
Please DO NOT be concerned with the side results of the biopsy. They may be graphic for a few days but a generally painless and go away in a short time altogether. Go with your doc’s recommendation….but if you have to, get a second doctor’s opinion.
My PSA history was 2.8, 3.2 and 3.6 within the 2 years period. Urologist asked me to do the biopsy. In the forum, of all those stories, most of them did not mentioned how their PSA histories prompt them to do the biopsy. Please let me know your thought of my case. Do I have to do this? Is this not too early? I am nost scared of the pain, but only the side effects after the biopsy. My direct email add. bianto.santoso@bnd.com.au
Ben
Had a biopsy september 9th. No pain at all! A slight tingle when given the local.. after that smooth sailing. Slight rectum discomfort that afternoon, went away with one tylenol. No pain since. No blood in urine or stool. No pain going to bathroom… overall, very easy procedure.. don’t worry at all!
Have not ejaculated yet.. suppose to wait 7 days.. Wife wants to give me a bj the first shot out of the box.. needless to say, neither one of us are squemish at all.. she is a nurse.
Good luck to you all…. seriously don’t worry about the procedure at all!
Michael Banker:
You are just a wee bit younger than me, but your sex life is far different. I have my operation Oct 3, and have just gien up on bveing scared. Too much info on the internet, too many people with ideas, and most likely, while all or most men might develop prostrate cancer, each case will have its unique aspects. So, I am just concentrating on doing my job, dreaming of winning the lotto, and looking forward to going into the hospital Sept 28 so they can wean me off Plavax before the operation. I will get to watch a lot of television, and do no work, they will bring me food and do the dishes, they will clean the bathroom, and come to me if I call them. Better than real life! 🙂
I see by the inputs a lot of biopsys have been a bit painfull, sorry about that, ask about Twilight”. It is great! No after effects. But even if you do have some paid, don’t be afraid of it, like they say in the poives, pain is natures way of reminding you you are still alive, and it will go away soon. It is you mind, not your body which will drag on and on and on with sorrow, pain, misery and a whole bunch af uneeded bad baggage. Drop the bags, concentrate on what is really important in your lives, and get the biopsy and if needed, the operation, or radiation treatment or whatever you want, get it over with, then say a prayer of thanks and go back to concentrating on what is important to you.
Will drop in again after my surgery to let you all know how things go. Take care an think positive.
Joe
As can be seen on this and other sites, PSA is not a cancer specific test. All it signals is an unhappy prostate, whether it be BPH, prostatitis, or cancer. The only way the cause of an elevated PSA can be determined with any degree of certainty is via biopsy. Even 25 core biopsy, like I just had, is not totally 100% accurate. But it’s as close as we currently can get.
I apologize for not indicating my age in my previous posts. I had my first 13 core biopsy with a PSA of 6.7 at the age of 49. Second biopsy, 25 cores, this year with PSA of 7.4 at the age of 55. Both biopsy results negative with no abnormalities. My urologist has suggested prescribing Avodart to decrease the size of my prostate (35g) which in turn would/should decrease the PSA. He indicated that he usually doesn’t like to start patients on Avodart at my age due to it causing a general decrease in energy. (?). Will have to think about it. PSA test scheduled again in 6 mo.
I hope this site is referred to and used by urologists for clinical and statistical evaluation. It seems that PSA’s are still not close to conclusive as a diagnostic tool and that biopsies are required to impose certainty. Personally, I have no “baseline” PSA. It’s all over the board…from 8 to 16 in four months, then back down to 11 in 3 more months. Yet I’ve read of pCa in readings as low as -2 on this site.
For those of us with HGPIN findings, and though it’s considered a cancer precursor, recent studies show little difference in biopsy results from those with BHP. My impression is that Urology is still more of an art than science and that, like it or not, biopsy is worth every bit of momentary discomfort to provide the certainty that all of us need.
I recommend that all of us on this site include our ages. It is an important and interesting stat. I’m 78 and you can see my results on this site back in mid-August.
Infection: Believe it was Winston that had a very bad post op infection, quite serious. Apparently most urologists are doing the before and after Cipro, but if they do not, demand it. My doc said the odds of infection are around 1-2%, and generally not as bad as Winston’s.
This is a great site, spread the word to all your male friends, and strongly encourage them to get regular PSA’s.
Good luck to all, Rod
Got results of my “saturation” biopsy of 25 cores. All negative, showing no abnormalities. Pain I had lasted about 24 hrs, which kept me from working the following day. Spotting/ bleeding continues 3 days post biopsy and I expect that to continue for the next week from past experience. Big inconvenience is not being able to do some of the things I do per Dr’s orders.
I wish all of you the very best, whatever the results of your biopsies.
I had my first biopsy on Wednesday. I am 54. My urologist was excellent and the biopsy was done in an excellent hospital cancer department. The doctor used only topic anesthetic (Lidocaine) but that was sufficient for me. 12 samples taken. A couple hurt but on a scale of 1-10 they were at most a 4. He also did ultrasound and went over the results iof that with me immediately. Ultrasound showed my prostate was 50 grams which is well above the 20 gm that would be normal for me. He advised this might explain my PSAs which have fluctuated between 3 and 4.5 over 4 tests over 2 years. He said this was consistent with BPH, but is not definitive without pathological reports. He and the nurse went to great lengths to advise me about the possible blood in the urine, bowels, and semen – and other side effects. Luckily I have no blood at all in urine and bowel movements. Semen, well that was a shocking bloody mess. So I will wait a while before checking that again. I have no other complaints, but 1000 mg of Cipro per day to prevent infection, does tire me out. I’ve no lingering pain. Results of pathology in about 10 days. I am happy to find this site to hear of others’ experiences, and my experience so far is not atypical. Thanks for sharing.
Underwent my 3rd biopsy today, without any adverse effects other than discomfort. Drove to and from and am working at my home office. My doc was very aggressive and administered a “saturation” biopsy, meaning double the protocol, with 24 cores taken. He is amazingly efficient and deft at this process and we conversed normally throughout it on topics of interest. Results in a week to 10 days. I expect more blood in urine, stool, etc. as a result of the additional cores. Was advised to limit activity such as gym workouts, etc. for 4-5 days. My diet changes and supplements had no effect on shrinking the size of my prostate since my last biopsy last June. My initial diagnosis was HGPIN after my 2d biopsy based on 3 of 12 cores.
Just got back from my second biopsy in 4 years. PSA in early 2007 was 6.7, with enlarged prostate symptoms of reduced flow, urgency, increased frequency that had been increasing over previous two to three years. That biopsy came back negative. Fell through the cracks and went in for a routine physical this July (2010). PSA has increased .7 to 7.4. Urologist ” wants to be certain” thus the second biopsy. Previous biopsy was 13 needles, and had some bleeding when urinating for a week. This time he took 25 samples! Man, am I sore down there, mostly in my rectum. Hope this discomfort dissipates by tomorrow. There’s no way I could work now, feeling as I do. Did not have this trouble before. More needles, more chance of discomfort I guess.
Had my first biopsy 24 hours ago. Yesterday there was a slight pinkish tinge in the urine, not today. Slight”sensation” in my rectum, but NO pain.
Perforned at Colombia Presbyterian in NYC, they are the best. Very professional, polite, supportive and communicative staff and doctors.
Was give IV anesthesia, unconscious for the first 6 samples, started to awaken by then. Remember Dr. asking me if I was in pain, I said no, but could hear them talking and felt the needles going in (NO pain however) and a snapping sound,
Was made to stay in recovery room for 2 hours, given lunch and sent home with a friend.
Now the wait for results.
Feel normal today, but am anxious to hear results.
Guys…I have read very different responses in this forum, but my experience was 100% painless.
Went to the Dr’s today to discuss treatment options. My stage is t1c. I decided to have an Perinal Prostatectomy. My operation date is October 5th. I’ll be glad when it’s over. Good luck to all.
Had my 2nd biopsy in 7 months.
But, prior to my 1st one I spoke with everyone I knew that had gone through this. I got mostly horror stories.
I then decided to check out this procedure on the web.
What I found was it appears my doctor must have written or studied the procedure as I found it on the net.
He followed what I had read pretty much step by step.
The prep was minimal. Stay away from certain foods.
Stop taking aspirin a week prior to the biopsy.
Took an antibiotic 1 hr. before the test.
And another after the test before dinner the day of the test.
Once at the office.
Everything was explained in great detail.
Then did a digital exam (this was the most uncomfortable part)
Then I received a numbing injection (also painless)
Then the procedure began.
In all 14 samples were taken.
The entire test from entering the room to leaving was less then 30 minutes.
Completely painless and pretty much a non-event.
I mentioned to the nurse that this was way less of a deal then I had anticipated. She told me that prior to this Dr. joining the practice 14 yrs. ago, none of the other doctors used any numbing agent. He was the 1st one. She said back then prior to his joining the practice patients were in terrible pain and discomfort. She went on to say, that this doctor has the least amount of problems and is very thorough and caring towards his patients. I guess I got lucky by getting this doctor.
My after effects were pretty much the same as everyone elses, blood in urine and seman.I was completely pain free from beginning to end.
Test results were great, no need for another one unless my PSA does some crazy numbers.
Dennis,
what was your psa history ?
I am 65 and just had my first biospy. It is no big deal guys. No pain, just a little unpleasant. So my PSA is 12.4 and I am waiting on the results of other tests to see if the cancer is anywhere else. Go for the robotic surgery, it is the most sure course. Get over the possible loss of erection, it is better than death. Live your life and there is more ways to give sexual pleasure to your partner than using your penis. Save your life and be around for your partner.
I am in the Mayo system, and I promise you they are awesome. I still have to go thru surgery in October.
As of the blood in urine or during sex. Yes, wait at least 6 weeks so you don’t scare yourself or you partner. We can all be thankful for living in these times of medical science or we would all die a painful death from cancer. Am I concerned or scared – you bet but just grit your teeth and do it. My thoughts are with you all, God bless and best of luck.
M
Hello, I had a twelve sample biopsy taken yesterday… my second one ever….. many many years ago, I dont recall how many, i had my first, and with each firing of the needle, it hurt more and more. So, when i was advised to have this one, … [my psa rose from 1.7 last november, … to 29.85… along with a suspicious node found during the dre,] i had yesterdays biopsy. the difference???? well, remembering last time, i told the doctor i wouldn’t do it unless i was asleep. so this time yesterday, i was wheeling into the recovery room. I’ve been laying around since i got home…. and this morning i noticed several blood spots on my white sleep shorts, and one on the bed sheet, that had apparently seeped out of my penis over night. haven’t felt a need to check semen color, as about the only thing that makes up my semen is prostate fluid. three years ago i had my right testicle removed due to cancer, and in June of 2009, i had a recurrence with the discovery of a golfball sized mass wrapped around the lower vena cava… (biggest vein from heart to lower half of body) difficult surgery, which was followed by chemo for three months. Well, between the orchiectomy, and the chemo my left testicle was pretty much useless for testosterone, so I went on Androgel testosterone therapy. the application of the gel enables erections, … but has made my last nut shrink to the size of an almond. So, now you understand why my semen is mostly prostate fluid…. not many fishes here!!! I throughly expect then, that when I DO ejaculate for the first time, it will be mostly blood. Just not real eager to test it though.
With the cancer recurrence in 2009, that makes me a 3 time survivor, … back in ’84 I had a seven inch oval area taken off my left thigh…. diagnosed as malignant melanoma. So, needless to say, I thank God that i am still here to type this, …. and am looking to Him to see me through. I get the results back on September 9th, and am myself, …. along with many other friends, praying that it will only be an infection, and not cancer. at this point, I feel a bit groggy, … have pain sitting, and have a sore throat from the thing they stick down you. I haven’t had a bm yet to check that out but am apprehensive for sure. I appreciate your input, and welcome your emails at silkylead@hotmail.com if you wish to communicate. Thanks for your time, … and may God bless you as we all travel this ordeal together. ……… Bob