What Happens After a High PSA?

Getting a high PSA result can feel unsettling. But a high PSA does not mean you have cancer. Many men with high PSA levels turn out to be cancer-free. So what happens next? Your doctor may repeat your PSA test, do a rectal exam, order an MRI, talk with you about a biopsy. A biopsy is when the doctor takes tiny tissue samples from your prostate to look for cancer cells. It gives much more information than the PSA test alone. Before any test, ask your doctor these simple questions. Why do I need this test? What are you looking for? What side effects could happen? When will I get my results? And who will call me? Asking questions keeps you in control and cuts down on fear. If you’ve had long waits or didn’t hear back after a test before, speak up. Before you leave the visit, ask for your next steps in writing.