What Is a Prostate Ultrasound?
A prostate ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed, real-time images of the prostate gland. The examination helps healthcare providers evaluate the size, shape, and structure of the prostate and identify abnormalities that may require further evaluation.
Depending on your healthcare provider's recommendation, the ultrasound may be performed over the lower abdomen or using a transrectal approach. The appropriate method depends on your symptoms and the reason for the examination, and our team will explain the procedure before your appointment.
When Is a Prostate Ultrasound Recommended?
Your healthcare provider may recommend a prostate ultrasound if you have:
- An elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test
- An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH)
- An abnormal prostate examination
- Urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating or frequent urination
- A suspected prostate abnormality
- A need for imaging guidance during certain procedures
The type of ultrasound performed depends on your symptoms, medical history, and your healthcare provider's clinical assessment.
What Can a Prostate Ultrasound Reveal?
A prostate ultrasound provides detailed images that help healthcare providers better understand the condition of the prostate gland.
Depending on the reason for your exam, the ultrasound may help evaluate:
- Enlargement of the prostate
- Prostate cysts
- Structural abnormalities
- Changes in prostate size or shape
- Prostate volume
- Other findings that may require additional evaluation
The results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, PSA levels, physical examination, and medical history to help guide further evaluation or treatment recommendations.
Preparing for Your Prostate Ultrasound
Preparation depends on the type of prostate ultrasound being performed.
Some examinations require little or no preparation, while others may involve specific instructions from your healthcare provider.
When you schedule your appointment, our team will explain how to prepare for your exam and answer any questions you may have before your visit.
Why Patients Choose First Medical Center
- Established Community Presence: Proudly serving Cerritos and surrounding communities with accessible diagnostic imaging and preventive health services.
- AAAHC-Accredited Facility: Committed to maintaining high standards for quality, patient safety, and patient-centered care.
- Convenient Access to Imaging: Ultrasound imaging and digital X-rays available in one location, reducing the need to visit multiple facilities.
- Flexible Scheduling Options: Online scheduling and Saturday appointments help patients access care on their schedule.
- Multilingual Support: Our staff speaks English, Spanish, and Korean, helping patients feel informed and comfortable throughout their visit.
- Expert Image Interpretation: Ultrasound images are interpreted by an experienced teleradiology group, providing diagnostic reporting to support your healthcare provider.
Schedule Your Prostate Ultrasound in Cerritos
Whether you're following up on an elevated PSA result, evaluating urinary symptoms, or monitoring an existing prostate condition, First Medical Center offers convenient access to prostate ultrasound services in Cerritos.
Our team is here to answer your questions, explain the imaging process, and help you schedule your appointment in a professional, comfortable environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, while a prostate ultrasound is an imaging study that provides detailed pictures of the prostate gland. The two tests are often used together to evaluate prostate health.
A prostate ultrasound can identify structural changes or abnormalities in the prostate, but it cannot diagnose prostate cancer on its own. If additional evaluation is needed, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy.
Most prostate ultrasound examinations take approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of study being performed.
After your ultrasound is completed, the images are interpreted by an experienced teleradiology group. A detailed report is then sent to your referring healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings and any recommended next steps with you.