Q&A
Read common questions asked by patients with prostate problems, and responses from experts at Harvard.
Related Articles
Is PSA reliable?
That’s a good question, because having an elevated PSA doesn’t necessarily mean that a man has prostate cancer.
Read more »What does a fluctuating PSA mean?
If your PSA has varied greatly and biopsies have been negative, you might want to try a different testing regimen.
Read more »What is the difference between PSA and free PSA?
Kevin R. Loughlin, M.D., M.B.A., director of Urologic Research at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains how these tests differ.
Read more »What is a “PSA bounce?”
I had brachytherapy to treat my prostate cancer and my PSA had dropped to 0.3 ng/ml. But six months ago, my PSA had gone up to 0.5, and now it’s up to 0.8 ng/ml. I’m worried that the cancer is back; my doctor said it could be a “PSA bounce.” What’s that?
Read more »Does frequent ejaculation help ward off prostate cancer?
Studies show that ejaculating often may help protect against prostate cancer.
Read more »Can a vasectomy increase prostate cancer risk?
Experts conclude that there is no association between vasectomy and prostate cancer risk.
Read more »What’s the downside to a biopsy?
Even if my father takes antibiotics beforehand, could he develop a serious infection when he has a prostate biopsy later this year? Are there other possible complications we should be on the lookout for?
Read more »How soon can I bike after a biopsy?
I am an avid bicyclist, and I am having a prostate biopsy in a few weeks. How long do I need to wait after the biopsy before I can start biking again?
Read more »What if I have prostate cancer and lymphoma?
There’s no one correct course of action. In general, experts recommend first treating whichever condition is worse.
Read more »Am I too old to have prostate surgery?
A radical prostatectomy is a major operation that can lead to serious complications. If a man is older than 75, his doctor may not want to operate on him.
Read more »
