Prostate health is a growing concern for Nigerian men, especially as they age. A prostate ultrasound scan is a safe, non-invasive way to detect potential issues early. Here's why your Lagos doctor might recommend one—and what to expect.
🚨 5 Key Reasons for a Prostate Ultrasound
1. Difficulty Urinating or Frequent Urges
- Weak urine flow
- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Waking up multiple times at night to urinate
🔍 What the scan checks:
✔ Prostate enlargement (BPH)
✔ Blockages in the urinary tract
2. Elevated PSA Levels
- Abnormal blood test results
- Family history of prostate cancer
🔍 What the scan checks:
✔ Suspicious lumps or masses
✔ Need for further biopsy
3. Pelvic Pain or Blood in Urine/Semen
- Unexplained discomfort in the lower abdomen
- Discolored urine or semen
🔍 What the scan checks:
✔ Inflammation (prostatitis)
✔ Tumors or cysts
4. Erectile Dysfunction (When Combined with Other Symptoms)
- Not a standalone reason but may be linked to prostate issues
🔍 What the scan checks:
✔ Blood flow to the pelvic area
✔ Structural abnormalities
5. Follow-Up After Abnormal Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
- If your doctor feels an irregularity during a physical exam
🔍 What the scan checks:
✔ Size, shape, and texture of the prostate
✔ Need for further testing
🔬 Types of Prostate Ultrasound Scans
1. Transabdominal Ultrasound
- How it's done: Probe on the lower belly
- Pros: Non-invasive, no prep needed
- Cons: Less detailed than other methods
2. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) – Most Common
- How it's done: Small probe inserted into the rectum
- Pros: Highly detailed images, can guide biopsies
- Cons: Mild discomfort, may requires bowel prep
3. Doppler Ultrasound
- How it's done: Checks blood flow in the prostate
- Used for: Detecting tumors or inflammation
🏥 What to Expect During the Scan
✔ Before:
- For TRUS, you may need an enema or laxative
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing
- Empty bladder before a transabdominal scan
✔ During:
- Lie on your side (for TRUS) or back
- Gel applied to the skin (no pain, just slight pressure)
- Takes 15-30 minutes
✔ After:
- No downtime—resume normal activities
- Results usually ready in 24-48 hours
🩺 Why Early Detection Matters
- Prostate cancer is one of the leading cancers in Nigerian men
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) affects over 50% of men over 50
- Early diagnosis = better treatment outcomes
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scan painful?
A: TRUS may feel slightly uncomfortable but isn't painful.
Q: Can I drive home after?
A: Yes, no sedation is used.
Q: How often should men get checked?
A: From age 45+, especially with symptoms or family history.
Continue Reading
If you're experiencing urinary issues, pelvic pain, or have a family history of prostate problems, don't ignore the signs. Early detection saves lives.
Book Your Prostate Scan in Lagos
Ready for your prostate scan? Mascot Healthcare Clinic in Akoka (Yaba), Lagos offers prostate and pelvic ultrasound scans. By appointment only, Mon–Sat, 9am–5pm — book online at mascothealthcare.com/setappointment.html or message us on WhatsApp/call to confirm your schedule.