How are PSA tests done: step-by-step instructions, how to get ready, and the results
Men, especially those over 50, are more likely to get prostate cancer than anybody else. Early discovery can help doctors make a better diagnosis and start treatment faster. The PSA test is one of the most common ways to check the health of the prostate. If you want to know how are PSA tests done and what goes on before, during, and after the test, this complete guide will show you everything step by step.
What is a PSA test?
The prostate gland makes a protein called Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). A blood test called the PSA test checks how much PSA is in your blood. Your doctor may recommend a PSA test to:
- Check for prostate cancer in men over a certain age.
- Watch for prostate enlargement, which is also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Watch how things are going with the treatment for your prostate.
- Find out what’s wrong with your prostate if you have difficulties peeing, feel hot while you urinate, or have pain in your lower abdomen.
Cancer is not the only thing that can cause the PSA level to rise. That’s why it’s so crucial to understand how PSA tests work and what the results signify.
How is a PSA test done? step-by-step process explained
A PSA test is a simple and quick blood test. Here is how it is work:
Step 1 Registration: You visit a diagnostic centre, pathology lab, or hospital. Your basic details and prescription are verified.
Step 2 Sample Collection: Cleans the skin where the needle will be inserted Uses a small, sterile needle to draw 2–3 ml of blood from a vein in your arm Collects the sample into a test tube The entire process usually takes less than 5 minutes. The entire process usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Step 3 Laboratory Testing: The blood sample going to the lab, where:
- PSA proteins are separated and checked using advanced analyzers
- Report is created with PSA value in ng/mL
Step 4 Results & Doctor understanding: Reports are usually available within 24 hours. your doctor will examine PSA levels along with age, Symptoms, Digital rectal examination (DRE) findings, Family history, Other health conditions
Why is a PSA test done?
Your doctor may recommend a PSA test for the following reasons:
To check for prostate cancer
Especially in men above 50 years
(In men with family history – screening may start from 45)
To evaluate symptoms such as:
- Weak urine flow
- Frequent urination (especially at night)
- Difficulty starting urination
- Pain in lower abdomen or pelvis
To monitor prostate conditions:
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Prostatitis (infection or inflammation of prostate)
To assess treatment progress
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Prostatitis (infection or inflammation of prostate)
To assess treatment progress
After prostate cancer treatment or surgeries this makes the PSA test an important part of men’s healthcare.
What to expect during the test?
Many patients feel stressed before a medical test, but you should know that the PSA test is:
- Completely safe
- No anesthesia required
- Minimal to no pain
- No hospital stay
You may only feel a small prick while the blood sample is being collected.
How to prepare for a PSA test?
Proper preparation helps you get accurate results. Here is what doctors advise:
| Preparation Tip | Why It Matters |
| Avoid ejaculation for 24–48 hours before test | Ejaculation can temporarily increase PSA |
| Avoid cycling or motorcycle riding before test | Pressure on prostate raises PSA |
| Inform doctor about urinary infections | Infections raise PSA levels |
| Avoid heavy exercise before sample | Can alter test results |
| Ask your doctor about blood-thinning medicines | Some medicines affect PSA |
| Do not do the test soon after prostate procedures/DRE | Can change PSA readings |
Fasting is not usually required unless the lab advises additional blood tests.
What are normal PSA levels?
The normal PSA range depends on age, prostate size, and overall health.
General PSA reference ranges often used in India are:
| Age Group | Normal PSA Level |
| 40–49 yrs | 0–2.5 ng/mL |
| 50–59 yrs | 0–3.5 ng/mL |
| 60–69 yrs | 0–4.5 ng/mL |
| 70+ yrs | 0–6.5 ng/mL |
What causes PSA levels to increase?
A raised PSA level can be due to:
- Prostate cancer
- BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
- Prostatitis (infection or inflammation)
- Recent ejaculation
- Recent urological surgery or catheter
- Certain medicines
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
That is why PSA results alone cannot confirm cancer.
How accurate is a PSA test?
The PSA test is an excellent screening tool, but it has limitations:
- It may show false positives – when PSA is high but no cancer
- It may show false negatives – when PSA is normal even if there is cancer risk
Your doctor may suggest additional tests such as:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
- MRI of prostate
- Prostate biopsy
- Free-to-total PSA ratio
- PSA velocity (rate of change over time)
- PSA density
These help in more accurate diagnosis.
When Should You Consult a Urologist?
If you are from the jaipur or near by location then consult a best urologist in jaipur if:
- Your PSA level is above the age-normal range
- You have urinary symptoms affecting daily life
- PSA is rising rapidly over multiple tests
- There is a family history of prostate cancer
Early evaluation can prevent complications and help maintain good prostate health.
PSA Test in India — Cost & Availability
In India, PSA tests are easily available in:
- Pathology labs
- Diagnostic centers
- Government & private hospitals
- Urology clinics
Cost Range: This could be depending on city and lab quality.
Some men get this test done during annual health check-ups, especially after age 50.
Benefits of PSA Test
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
| Early detection of prostate issues | Better outcome and treatment choices |
| Simple and quick | No hospital stay |
| Widely available across India | Easy accessibility |
| Helps track treatment progress | Guides ongoing care |
FAQs About PSA Test
Is a PSA test painful?
No. You may feel a small prick while drawing blood, but there is no major pain.
Do I need to be on an empty stomach for a PSA test?
Usually no. Fasting is not required for PSA alone.
Can a PSA test detect cancer early?
It helps identify risk, but cannot confirm cancer. Further tests are required if PSA is high.
At what age should Indian men start PSA screening?
Most doctors recommend starting at 50 years, or at 45 if there is family history of prostate cancer.
Should I avoid sex before a PSA test?
Yes. Avoid ejaculation for 24–48 hours before your test to avoid false high results.
How long does the PSA test take?
Blood collection takes just a few minutes, and results in 24 hours.