Hi Im new on here.
Can you please tell me how it really feels to have this biopsy using a local anesthetic, as ive heard some painful experiences. Thank you.
Hi Dartmoor,
All you feel is a dull snip for each biopsy. However, you’re asking the wrong question. How does the anaesthetic injection feel? This is another story altogether. My pain was excruciating for 5 seconds then all was numb. Luckily, I was held down by 2 nurses who were doing their best to distract me. At least you are now forewarned and can prepare yourself. It’s one of the early lessons in being able to leave any squeamish feelings about male dignity at the hospital door. I guess we’ve all been there, got the badge and survived.
My OH. has a transrectal biopsy done . He stated the worst part was the fact that his dignity was impacted . He said he felt the local for a few seconds but only heard the noise of the “snip” but no pain . He had this done early morning and was out walking in the afternoon albeit not as far as he usually goes.
good luck with your tests
Liz & OH
Hi Dartmoor,
It's not as bad as you might have heard, & I've had more painful dental treatment in the past (although would much prefer that I don't have either again). Before they administer the local anaesthetic they use a freezing spray which numbs the area so the initial injection isn't too bad & then that takes effect very quickly.
The worst bit for me is that nearing the end of the biopsies being taken I started feeling the urge to have a pee - an urgent word with the team & they took the final samples & then once I was up off the chair it was a quick dash to the loo.
Then it was back to the waiting area where I was given a mug of tea (coffee for those who prefer) so that they could get a urine sample to check before being discharged. My first attempt failed so, another mug of tea was partaken before passing the pee test. Felt absolutely fine afterwards so stopped for lunch on the way home to celebrate having it out of the way. The side effects of blood in urine cleared after 3 or 4 days & blood in semen after about 3 to 4 weeks.
Hope it all goes well.
All the best,
Brian
Hi Buzzers
You are all so decent to answer my frivolous question!
Thank you so much for replying.
I'm in shock about the PSA test result, the finger jobs, and now needing to have a biopsy, my feet have not touched the ground. It has gone from nought to sixty in two weeks.
I feel so much better now, due to your reply, and the replies of the others.
Many thanks! And all the best...
Mick
Very best wishes -
Dartmoor
Hello Mick (Dartmoor)
A warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Prostate Community from me.
I see you have had some great answers (I won't comment as i had the old "TRUS biopsy!).
If you can it would help us to help you if you could add some details of your journey to your profile (it stops us asking the same questions - and it's a reminder for you of your journey). To do this go to the chair on your home page - top right, then click on profile, then edit. Once you have written something don't forget to save it. You can read my profile by clicking on my name or avatar.
Feel free to ask anything - however trivial - we are all in this "club" together,
Best wishes- Brian.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
Hi Mick (Dartmoor ), I think the experience is different for each of us. My own was not pleasant but remember it is only for a few minutes. Having had back pain, prior to back surgery years ago, I would definitely opt for the biopsy! Try and approach the biopsy that it has to be done and each click is nearer it being over. You will be fine. Good Luck, David
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2024 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007