Free PSA blood test
Quick answer: A free PSA test measures the part of prostate-specific antigen that is not bound to proteins. Doctors use it with total PSA to help decide whether a prostate biopsy is needed when PSA is mildly raised.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testAvoid ejaculation and vigorous cycling for a day or two before the test, as your doctor may advise.
How the test is done
- 1You avoid ejaculation and hard cycling for a day or two, if advised
- 2A needle draws blood from a vein
- 3The lab measures free PSA and total PSA
- 4The percentage of free PSA is calculated
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A lower percentage of free PSA can be seen with a higher chance of prostate cancer, while a higher percentage is more often seen with a benign enlarged prostate. It guides decisions but does not diagnose cancer.
Who usually has this test
Men with a mildly raised total PSA, where doctors need help deciding whether a biopsy or MRI is needed.
Risks and aftercare
No aftercare is needed beyond a plaster on the needle site.
Names and options
Also called: free PSA, percent free PSA
Listed by the hospital as
- FREE PSA, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why is free PSA measured with total PSA?
The ratio of free to total PSA helps tell an enlarged prostate from cancer when total PSA is in a grey zone.
Can a urine infection affect PSA?
Yes. Infection or inflammation of the prostate can raise PSA. Your doctor may treat it and repeat the test.
What can raise PSA before the test?
Ejaculation, vigorous cycling, a recent prostate examination or a urinary catheter can raise PSA for a short time.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.