Skip to content 
Photo Credit-Jaime Grajales Benjumea-iStock
If you’re scheduled for a biopsy, you may be asking, what sedation is used for prostate biopsy? In this video, Dr. Kia Michel, board-certified urologist and founder of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, explains the different anesthesia and sedation options available and how patient comfort is prioritized.
With over 20 years of experience and advanced in-office diagnostics, Dr. Michel performs prostate biopsies using modern techniques designed to maximize accuracy while minimizing discomfort.
Video Description
Understanding what sedation is used for prostate biopsy can help reduce anxiety before your procedure. Most prostate biopsies—especially transrectal or transperineal biopsies—are performed with local anesthesia to numb the prostate area. This significantly reduces discomfort during tissue sampling.
In this video, Dr. Michel explains the difference between local anesthesia, oral sedation, and IV (intravenous) sedation. While many patients do very well with local numbing medication alone, some may benefit from additional mild sedation depending on anxiety level, pain tolerance, and the biopsy approach used.
He also discusses how MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy improves prostate biopsy accuracy, and how in-office diagnostics at Comprehensive Urology allow for efficient, streamlined care. Our best-in-class Beverly Hills facility and affiliation with Cedars-Sinai ensure patients receive comprehensive support if additional treatment is required.
Timestamps
0:00 – Why sedation matters
0:20 – Local anesthesia explained
0:45 – When oral or IV sedation is used
1:15 – Comfort during MRI fusion biopsy
1:40 – What to expect after the procedure
What’s Covered in This Video
- How a Prostate Biopsy is performed
- Evaluation of Elevated PSA
- Diagnosis and next steps for Prostate Cancer
- Differences between transrectal and transperineal biopsy approaches
FAQ
Is a prostate biopsy painful?
With local anesthesia, most patients experience only mild pressure or brief discomfort.
Do I need to be fully asleep for a prostate biopsy?
No. Most biopsies are safely performed with local anesthesia, with optional mild sedation if needed.
Medically Reviewed by:
Written by: Kia Michel, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Reviewed by: Robert Sanford, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Last Reviewed: March 11, 2026 08:03pm PT
How We Review Medical Content: Dr. Michel reviews all references for accuracy and clinical relevance and Dr. Robert Sanford peer-reviews the data to ensure the most up to date information.
Disclaimer: This video and supporting text is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please contact a licensed physician in reference to your specific case.
Kia Michel, MD
Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel's expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shock Wave Treatment for ED and penile injections.
Read Next:
- MRI Prostate Biopsy – Explore how MRI fusion and targeted biopsies improve diagnostic accuracy.
- Prostate Cancer – Learn about diagnosis, staging, and advanced treatment options for localized and aggressive prostate cancer.
- PSA Testing for Prostate Cancer Screening