Prostate Ultrasound

A scan to measure the size of the prostate and check how well the bladder empties.

Book an Appointment More colour doppler ultrasound services

About this scan

The prostate is a small gland below the bladder in men, and it commonly grows larger with age. A prostate ultrasound, carried out through the lower abdomen, measures the size of the prostate and looks at the bladder.

It is often requested for urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, needing to pass urine often or at night, or a feeling that the bladder has not emptied. The scan may include checking how much urine is left in the bladder after you have passed urine (post-void residual).

What happens during the scan

A general overview — our team will guide you through each step of your examination.

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Step 1: You lie on your back and the lower abdomen is uncovered.
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Step 2: Gel is applied and the probe is moved over the lower abdomen to view the bladder and prostate.
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Step 3: You may be asked to pass urine, then the bladder is scanned again to see how much remains.
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Step 4: The size of the prostate and the findings are recorded in a report.

Preparation & tips

How to get ready for your scan, and what to expect afterwards.

If you have sudden or severe symptoms, please seek urgent medical care.

Drink 4–5 glasses of water about an hour before the scan and do not pass urine, so the bladder is full.
Bring any previous scan reports and PSA or urine test results.
You can return to normal activities straight after the scan.