Important: This page is general education, not personal medical advice.
Why is a prostate biopsy done?
A prostate biopsy checks for prostate cancer by taking small tissue samples for pathology. It may be recommended after concerning PSA trends, abnormal exam findings, MRI findings, or other risk factors.
How is it performed?
- Most modern biopsies are performed using image guidance (often MRI-targeted + systematic sampling)
- Approach can be transperineal or transrectal depending on clinical factors and local practice
- Local anesthesia is commonly used; some patients need deeper sedation
Before the biopsy
- Review blood thinners/antiplatelets with your clinician
- Follow prep instructions exactly (medications, timing, antibiotics if prescribed)
- Arrange transportation if sedation is planned
Risks and trade-offs
- Blood in urine, stool, or semen for a short period is common
- Temporary urinary discomfort or frequency
- Urinary retention (uncommon)
- Infection risk (generally lower with transperineal approach)
- Rare bleeding requiring additional care
Typical recovery timeline
- Day 0–2: mild soreness and light bleeding can occur
- Days 2–7: most patients return to usual activities
- Pathology results: usually discussed within several days to ~2 weeks
Procedure video (real procedural content)
Educational procedural footage. Viewer discretion advised.
Source video: AUA Core Videos transperineal biopsy demonstration.
Questions to ask your urologist
- Do I need MRI-targeted biopsy, systematic biopsy, or both?
- Which approach do you recommend (transperineal vs transrectal) and why?
- What symptoms are expected afterward vs warning signs?
- How and when will we review pathology and next steps?