Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) LIS Code: PSA
Private PSA blood test £37 for prostate health, no GP referral. How to prepare, what results mean and when to add free PSA. Slough, Victoria, Neasden.
Before your test
Good to know: Avoid ejaculation and vigorous exercise (especially cycling) for 48 hours before your test, and wait at least 6 weeks after a urine infection, as these can raise PSA for a short time.
Test Categories
About this test
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein made by the prostate gland. A small amount normally gets into the blood, and the level can rise when the prostate is enlarged, inflamed or infected, or because of prostate cancer. A PSA test is a simple blood test that helps decide whether the prostate needs a closer look.
Who has a PSA test
- Men over 50 who want to check their prostate health. In the UK, any man over 50 can ask for a PSA test after discussing it with a doctor.
- Men over 45 with a higher risk: Black men, and men whose father or brother had prostate cancer.
- Men with urinary symptoms, such as needing to pass urine more often, especially at night, a weak flow or feeling that the bladder hasn't fully emptied.
- Men keeping track of a known prostate condition, as agreed with their doctor.
What your result means
PSA naturally rises with age, so your result is compared with the range for your age.
- A raised PSA is most often caused by an enlarged prostate or an infection, not cancer. It means it's worth speaking to a doctor, who may repeat the test, add a free PSA test or refer you for further checks.
- A normal PSA is reassuring, but it can't completely rule out prostate cancer, which is why doctors look at PSA together with your symptoms and risk.
When PSA is borderline, the free-to-total PSA ratio helps show whether a rise is more likely to be due to enlargement or needs further investigation. Our Prostate Profile includes these together.
Preparing for your test
Some everyday things can raise PSA for a short time, so for the most reliable result:
- Avoid ejaculation for 48 hours before your test.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, especially cycling, for 48 hours before.
- Wait at least 6 weeks after a urine infection, and tell us if you've recently had a prostate examination or procedure.
- No fasting is needed, and you can book any time of day.
How it works at VitaLync
- £37 for the test, plus a £25 blood draw at our Slough, Victoria or Neasden clinic, or a nurse visit at home or work.
- The laboratory usually reports PSA within about 5 days, and your result appears in your secure online account.
- If your PSA is raised, book a GP consultation to discuss what it means and the next steps.
