The prostate gland is one of the most susceptible areas for cancer development in men. Prostate cancer is a common form of cancer that affects men across the globe. It is typically found in men older than 40 years of age, although it may develop at a younger age as well. The prostate gland is an important part of the male reproductive system. While it does not directly affect the obvious sexual functions, it is essential for the viability of the male reproductive system. Without the prostate gland, there is a very small chance that a woman would become pregnant. The prostate performs two vital functions for the male reproductive system. It produces an alkaline fluid that is useful when the sperm enter the female reproductive tract. The alkaline fluid ensures that the acidic nature of the female reproductive tract is neutralized. The other major function of the prostate is the use of its muscles to add pressure during ejaculation.
A prostate biopsy is a procedure that is used to remove samples of tissue from various parts of the prostate gland. The tissue removed from the gland is subjected to chemical and physical examination to determine whether it contains any abnormal cells and if the abnormal cells are cancerous or benign. The procedure is ordered when the patient reports pain in the area or when a routine blood test reveals an increase in the Prostate Specific Antigen. This antigen is indicative of prostate cancer or an infection in the prostate. It may not be 100% accurate but it is a good indicator of a problem associated with this gland.
One of the main complications of a prostate biopsy is that of bleeding. A notable percentage of men suffer from bleeding after a prostate biopsy. The problem of prostate biopsy and bleeding may present itself in the form of blood in the urine or blood in the semen ejaculated during sexual activity. Bleeding may also occur from the site where the prostate biopsy has been conducted. If this has been done through the urethra, then blood will flow during the aforementioned activities, but if it is done through the rectum, then bleeding may occur from there. A patient who has had a prostate biopsy and bleeding after the procedure must visit a doctor immediately for an analysis about the extent of the injury causing the bleeding. Mild bleeding would heal itself but heavy bleeding may require medical attention.