If you’re experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or a weak stream, your doctor may recommend taking the Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Quiz, also known as the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Developed by the American Urological Association in 1992, it’s a short, simple questionnaire that tracks how often these symptoms happen and how much they affect your daily life.
It’s also commonly used by people who are exploring treatments for prostate health, including those who want to learn more about the TULSA Procedure.
The Symptom Score (IPSS)
The IPSS includes eight questions focused on symptom frequency and an additional question that asks how you would feel if those symptoms stayed the same.
Your answers to these questions help categorize the severity of your symptoms. Doctors may use the IPSS at different points in time to better understand how your symptoms are changing and whether treatment options, such as the TULSA Procedure, may be worth exploring.
How the IPSS Supports the TULSA Procedure
The TULSA Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that uses the TULSA-PRO® system. It’s designed to precisely target and heat a specific area of the prostate, defined by your surgeon, to remove problematic to obstructive tissue. While doing this, the system also works to protect the surrounding areas, such as the urethra and rectum, to help preserve normal function.
The IPSS is often used before and after the TULSA Procedure. Here’s how:
Before — It helps determine if you’re a good candidate based on the severity of your symptoms.
After — It helps track how much your symptoms have improved over time.
Studies have shown that many people experience improvement in their IPSS scores after undergoing the TULSA Procedure, resulting in a reduction in urinary symptoms. Of course, your doctor will evaluate whether this approach is right for your situation.
Talk to a specialist
Understanding your symptoms is an important first step to your prostate health. The IPSS helps you and your doctor get a clearer picture of what you’re experiencing so you can explore the proper care options together, including whether the TULSA Procedure may be appropriate for you.
