Prostate examination
Take charge of your prostate health
Your prostate health is an important part of your overall well-being. As you get older, conditions affecting the prostate, including an enlarged prostate, prostatitis and prostate cancer, become more common. A prostate examination can help identify changes in prostate health, often before symptoms develop, allowing for earlier evaluation and treatment when needed.
At CHRISTUS Health, our providers take a personalized approach to prostate care. We'll discuss your health history, answer your questions and help determine whether prostate screening is appropriate for you.
What is a prostate examination?
A prostate examination is a screening used to evaluate the health of your prostate gland and check for signs of prostate cancer or other prostate-related conditions.
A prostate exam may include:
- A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which measures the level of PSA in your blood
- A digital rectal exam (DRE), during which a provider gently examines the prostate by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum
- A discussion about your personal health history, symptoms and risk factors
While a prostate exam cannot diagnose prostate cancer on its own, it can help identify changes that may require additional testing.
Who should consider it?
The decision to begin prostate screening varies from person to person. Factors such as age, family history, race and overall health can influence when screening may be recommended.
You may want to discuss prostate screening with your provider if you:
- Are age 50 or older
- Have a parent, sibling or close relative with prostate cancer
- Are Black or African American
- Have urinary symptoms or concerns about prostate health
- Have a personal or family history that increases cancer risk
Your provider can help determine when screening should begin and how often it may be needed.
Why are prostate exams important?
Many prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, can develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Screening provides valuable information about your prostate health and can help identify changes that may warrant additional evaluation.
Potential benefits of screening include:
- Detecting potential concerns earlier
- Understanding your individual risk
- Monitoring changes in prostate health over time
- Supporting informed decisions about future care
What can a prostate exam detect?
A prostate examination may help identify:
- Signs of prostate cancer
- Prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
- Inflammation or infection of the prostate
- Changes that may require additional testing or monitoring
Abnormal results do not automatically mean cancer is present. PSA levels can increase for several reasons, including prostate enlargement and inflammation. Your provider may recommend additional testing to better understand your results.
What to expect during the exam
Most prostate examinations can be completed during a routine office visit.
A PSA test requires a simple blood draw. If a digital rectal exam is recommended, the exam usually takes only a few moments. Your provider will explain each step, answer questions and help you feel comfortable throughout the process.
If additional evaluation is needed, your provider may recommend follow-up testing, imaging or referral to a urology specialist.
Frequently asked questions
Does a prostate exam hurt?
Most men experience only mild pressure or temporary discomfort during a digital rectal exam. The procedure is brief.
Is a PSA test the same as a prostate exam?
Not exactly. A PSA test is a blood test, while a prostate exam may also include a digital rectal exam. Your provider may recommend one or both screening methods depending on your individual situation.
How often should I have a prostate exam?
Screening frequency varies based on age, risk factors and previous test results. Your provider can recommend a schedule that is appropriate for you.
Can prostate cancer be present without symptoms?
Yes. Early-stage prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why screening may be recommended for some men based on age and risk factors.
When should I talk to a provider about prostate health?
Prostate health is a good topic to discuss during routine wellness visits, especially if you are age 50 or older or have a family history of prostate cancer. Regular conversations with your provider can help ensure you receive screening and follow-up care when appropriate.
Know your risk
Take our Prostate Cancer Risk Assessment to learn more about your personal risk and whether it's time to talk with a provider.