What you’ll learn:
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What a prostate exam is (and what it can’t diagnose on its own)
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What happens during a screening appointment
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DRE vs. PSA testing: what’s the difference?
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Who should consider earlier screening
As men get older, prostate health becomes an important part of overall men’s health. At Arkansas Urology, we regularly see men in their 40s and beyond who want clear, straightforward information about prostate screening and when to see a urologist. Understanding what a prostate exam involves can make scheduling that first appointment feel more comfortable and less intimidating.
Prostate screening is a routine part of preventive healthcare. These evaluations help healthcare providers look for changes early, often before symptoms appear. Early screening supports informed decisions, appropriate follow-up, and long-term prostate health. If you are unsure whether it is time to be screened, scheduling a consultation can help you get clear guidance based on your age and risk factors.
What Is a Prostate Exam?
A prostate exam is a screening used to check the prostate gland for changes that may need attention. The prostate gland sits just below the bladder and plays a role in male reproductive health. As men age, the prostate commonly changes in size or structure, which is why regular monitoring becomes more important over time.
This type of exam does not diagnose a condition on its own. Instead, it helps your healthcare provider decide whether additional testing, monitoring, or follow-up may be helpful. For many men, a prostate exam is simply a way to establish a baseline and stay proactive about their health. Scheduling a screening visit can provide reassurance and help catch potential issues early.
Types of Prostate Exams Used in Screening
Prostate health is usually evaluated using one or more screening test options. The approach depends on age, symptoms, family history, and whether someone is at average risk or higher risk. Not every visit includes the same tests, and a prostate exam does not always involve blood work.
What Happens During a Prostate Exam Appointment
A prostate exam appointment is usually brief and straightforward. The visit focuses on understanding your prostate health and addressing any symptoms or concerns, rather than rushing into testing.
During the appointment, your healthcare provider may:
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Review your medical history and ask about urinary symptoms, erectile dysfunction, or urinary incontinence
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Discuss family history and other factors that may affect risk
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Perform a physical exam, which may include a digital rectal exam if appropriate
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Decide whether PSA testing is needed based on your age, symptoms, and risk factors
Most patients are able to return to normal activities right away. If you have questions or concerns, this appointment is also a good opportunity to talk openly with your provider and decide on next steps together.
Digital Rectal Exam
If a physical exam is performed, a digital rectal exam may be part of the visit. During this exam, a healthcare provider checks the prostate gland through the rectal wall using a gloved finger. This allows the provider to assess the prostate for size, shape, and texture.
The exam typically lasts less than a minute. While it may feel uncomfortable, it is usually not painful and provides useful information that supports overall screening decisions.
Prostate-Specific Antigen Blood Test
A prostate-specific antigen blood test, often called a PSA blood test, is a separate screening test and is not always done at every visit. When ordered, it measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.
The level of PSA is reviewed by your healthcare provider along with physical exam findings, age, family history, and other risk factors. An elevated PSA level does not automatically mean prostate cancer. Conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, urinary tract infection, or inflammation can also affect PSA levels.
This screening test helps determine whether monitoring, follow-up, or further tests may be helpful.
Who Is at Higher Risk and May Need Earlier Screening?
Some men may benefit from earlier or more frequent prostate screening based on known risk factors.
Factors that put someone at higher risk:
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Family history of prostate cancer
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Close relative diagnosed at a younger age
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Black men, who have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer
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Certain health conditions or personal medical history affecting prostate health
Men at higher risk are often encouraged to begin screening earlier than average. Creating a personalized screening plan with a urologist helps ensure care is appropriate for your individual needs. If you are unsure where you fall, scheduling an appointment can provide clarity and peace of mind.
What Can Prostate Screening Tell Your Doctor?
Prostate screening can provide helpful information about several common prostate issues and overall prostate health.
Screening may help identify:
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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common cause of urinary symptoms in older men
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Inflammation or infection, such as a urinary tract infection
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Early changes that may require closer monitoring or further tests
Screening is also an important part of prostate cancer screening. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses in men. In many cases, screening can help identify concerns in the early stages, when treatment options may be more effective.
Abnormal exam findings or PSA test results do not confirm cancer on their own. Instead, they help determine whether further tests, such as imaging, an MRI scan, or a prostate biopsy, may be appropriate. Your provider will explain results clearly so you understand what they mean and what comes next.
Why Prostate Exams Matter for Men Over 40
Regular prostate screening supports early detection and long-term men’s health. Many prostate conditions develop slowly and may not cause symptoms right away.
These exams help:
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Detect prostate problems early
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Monitor changes in the prostate gland over time
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Identify signs of cancer before symptoms appear
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Reduce the chance of needing more aggressive treatment
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Support informed healthcare decisions
For men at average risk, screening helps establish a useful baseline. For men at higher risk, including those with a family history or Black men, regular screening allows closer monitoring and earlier intervention. Talking with a urologist can help determine the right screening schedule for you.
Why Choose Arkansas Urology for Prostate Care
Arkansas Urology provides patient-centered prostate care with a focus on clear communication and personalized screening plans. Our healthcare providers understand that many men feel uncertain about prostate exams, and we take time to explain each step and answer questions.
Our team of health care professionals works with patients to evaluate risk, review PSA test results, and recommend further testing only when appropriate. Whether you are scheduling your first prostate exam or continuing routine screening, Arkansas Urology is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
Taking the Next Step Toward Prostate Health
If you are over 40 or have risk factors related to prostate health, scheduling a screening appointment is an important preventive step. Whether you have symptoms or simply want reassurance, an evaluation can provide clarity and guidance.
Arkansas Urology is here to support your prostate health at every stage. Scheduling an appointment today is a simple way to take an active role in your long-term health.
