Do you know your psa score?

The only way to determine your Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) level is to have it measured.

A PSA test is a blood test used to measure the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate, a small gland that sits below the bladder in males.

Small amounts of PSA ordinarily circulate in the blood. The PSA test can detect high levels of PSA that may indicate the presence of prostate cancer. However, many other conditions, such as an enlarged or inflamed prostate, also can increase PSA levels.

Determining what a high PSA score means can be complicated so if your PSA level is above a "normal" level, discuss the issue with your doctor.

Remember, IPCSG is here to help you.

Where to get PSA Testing

ULTA LAB TESTS

Normally $35, but with discount code "ULTA0615", you only pay $12.95 (plus an $8 blood draw fee).

Enter "ULTA0615" in the box that says "Promotion Code" above the $35 total cost as you check out, then click on the check mark to apply the discount.

Select the "Find Location" tab at the top of the ULTA webpage, which allows you to choose a nearby lab (mostly at Quest Diagnostics locations).

ULTA LAB webpage

Walk-In-Lab

Tests are $41-$59, depending on whether one chooses Quest or LabCorp.

Walk-in-lab

Your Doctor

As part of your annual check-up, make sure your doctor orders a PSA test.

Prior to a PSA Test: Don’t Do These Activities

Participate in vigorous exercise and activities that stimulate or “jostle” the prostate, such as bike riding, motorcycling, and riding a horse, ATV, or tractor, or getting a prostatic massage for 48 hours before your test.
Participate in sexual activity that involves ejaculation for 48 hours before your test. Ejaculation within this time frame may affect PSA results, especially in younger men.
Schedule your PSA test to be done for at least six weeks after undergoing any of the following procedures: prostate biopsy, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for BPH, urethral catheter, cystoscopy, or any other procedure that involves the prostate. If you are in doubt about the possible impact of any procedure on your PSA test, talk to your doctor.
Schedule a PSA test if you have a urinary tract infection. A bacterial infection in the urinary tract can cause PSA levels to rise temporarily. If you are not sure if you have a urinary tract infection, have a urine test before your PSA test to make sure. If you do have a urinary tract infection, you should wait at least six weeks after you have completed your antibiotic treatment before you have your PSA test.
Schedule a digital rectal examination (DRE) before your PSA test. Although a DRE should not have an impact on PSA levels, having the PSA test first is a precaution.

tell your doctor if you're getting a test

If you undergoing chemotherapy, as these drugs can cause an elevated PSA level
If you are taking any medications, especially statins, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or medications that control urinary problems such as dustasteride or finasteride. All of these substances have the potential to affect PSA levels.
If you have undergone urinary tract or prostate surgery recently, or if you have suffered a pelvic injury or sports injury.
If you have prostatitis or BPH.