Biopsy

Patients describe their experiences of biopsies. If the initial tests (rectal examination, PSA or ultrasound) show the possibility of cancer, men are usually asked to have a biopsy, in which a sample of cells is taken from the prostate to be looked at under the microscope. The biopsy is usually done through the back passage (rectum).

Men who had biopsies had very variable experiences. Most of the respondents reported that the biopsy was uncomfortable, but not painful. One man said that it was no more uncomfortable than having a blood sample taken, and others thought the description of a biopsy as 'being flicked with an elastic band', was a good description. One man found the procedure more embarrassing than painful and another man said that his privacy and dignity were not always respected.

Describes the slight discomfort experienced during the biopsy.

Explains the process and reason for biopsies.

Compares the biopsy to the unpleasantness of being flicked with an elastic band.

Explains that it is more embarrassing and unpleasant than painful.

He felt that there was a lack of concern for privacy and dignity during investigations such as the prostate biopsy.

However, about a quarter of the men found the biopsy painful and quite distressing. One man likened the biopsy to 'an air gun in reverse', and another said that the procedure 'brought tears to your eyes'. A man who had a biopsy done in a private hospital in 1994 described the biopsy as 'ghastly'. In 1997 he had another biopsy, this time within the National Health Service, but he found the experience equally painful, and refused to allow more than four cell samples to be taken. The use of Periprostatic nerve block (PNB) with local anesthesia prior to prostate biopsy is now considered standard care, patients should not undergo the procedure without it (see Nature.com for more information).

Comments that he found the biopsy very painful and unpleasant.

Describes the extremely adverse results he had after the biopsy.

The biopsy was painful. He still had blood in his urine and blood in his sperm three weeks later when he had the surgery.

Others found the procedure painful, but said that the pain was relatively short lived.

Comments that although the biopsy is unpleasant it is over with very quickly.

Explains that the professionals involved were very helpful and understanding.

For more information about the biopsy for prostate cancer see the HealthtalkonlinePSA testing website.

Last reviewed January 2010.

Last updated January 2010.