Tests and Procedures

Prostate biopsy

Risks

Risks associated with a prostate biopsy include:

  • Bleeding at the biopsy site. Rectal bleeding is common after a prostate biopsy.
  • Blood in your semen. It's common to notice red or rust coloring in your semen after a prostate biopsy. This indicates the presence of blood, and it's not a cause for concern. Blood in your semen may persist for a few weeks after the biopsy.
  • Blood in your urine. This bleeding is usually minor.
  • Difficulty urinating. Prostate biopsy can sometimes cause difficulty with urination after the procedure. Rarely, a temporary urinary catheter must be inserted.
  • Infection. Rarely, a prostate biopsy can cause an infection of the urinary tract or prostate that requires treatment with antibiotics.

Related Services