Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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What is this procedure?
This test checks for prostate cancer by taking small samples of tissue from your prostate. An ultrasound probe is placed in your back passage to guide the biopsy needles, which pass through the skin between the scrotum and rectum (the perineum). Usually this is done with local anaesthetic as a day-case, though occasionally a general or spinal anaesthetic is used. The tissue is then examined under a microscope to look for cancer.
What to expect after the procedure
You may see blood in your urine for several days, and blood in your semen for up to six weeks. Bruising or soreness around the perineum is common. Mild discomfort when passing urine can occur, but this usually settles quickly. Most people go home the same day and recover within a few days. The biopsy results are usually reviewed in a specialist team meeting and sent to you and your GP within 1–2 weeks.
Pain and recovery
The procedure itself is well tolerated with local anaesthetic, though the injection can sting briefly. Afterwards, discomfort is usually mild and controlled with simple painkillers. Risks include blood in urine or semen, bruising, temporary difficulty passing urine (about 1 in 20), infection (1 in 100), or very rarely, serious infection needing admission (<1 in 100). Occasionally, biopsies do not detect significant cancer, and a repeat procedure may be advised.
Looking after yourself
- Drink plenty of fluids for a few days to flush the bladder and reduce bleeding.
- Take simple painkillers (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen) if sore.
- Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and sexual activity until bleeding has settled.
- Complete any antibiotics prescribed.
- You may resume normal daily activities as soon as you feel comfortable.
Red flags – when to seek medical attention
Seek urgent help if you:
- Cannot pee
- Pass large blood clots or have heavy bleeding that does not settle with drinking fluids
- Develop fever, chills, or feel generally unwell (possible infection)
- Have worsening pain, swelling, or difficulty peeing
Who to contact
After reading this information, if you have any concerns, please contact:
Frimley park hospital
- surgical helpline 07990528061 for advice between 7am-8pm Monday-Sunday.
Wexham Park hospital surgical helpline:
- Males: 03006154570
- Females: 03006159062 / 03006159063 for advice between 8am-9pm Monday-Sunday.
If you are feeling unwell, have pain, fevers, or any concerns please present to your local A&E department.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Urology service.
About this information
Service:
Urology
Reference:
Z/023
Approval date:
22 June 2026
Review date:
1 June 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.