The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. Despite its modest size, often compared to a walnut, it has an important function in both the urinary and reproductive systems.
What Does the Prostate Do?
This gland impacts both fertility and urinary function in men.
- Semen production. The prostate contributes about 25-30% of the fluid in semen, which contains enzymes, zinc, and citric acid to support sperm health.
- Sperm protection and nourishment. Prostatic fluid helps maintain the proper pH level and provides essential nutrients to sperm.
- Influences urine flow. The prostate surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. Any enlargement or inflammation can affect the flow of urine.
What Are Common Prostate Concerns?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. It frequently appears as men get older and can lead to symptoms such as:
- Difficult or frequent urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Needing to urinate multiple times at night or nocturia
Treatments for BPH can include medications that relax or shrink the prostate, as well as minimally invasive procedures that remove excess tissue. The best approach varies depending on the severity of your symptoms and other health considerations.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate, which can be caused by infection, injury, or chronic irritation. It can occur at any age and may lead to symptoms such as:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Pelvic, groin, or lower back pain
- Painful ejaculation
The treatment for prostatitis depends on its cause. Bacterial prostatitis is typically treated with antibiotics, while chronic prostatitis may require a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and pelvic floor therapy.
Prostate cancer
This type of cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men. It often progresses slowly, though some forms can be more aggressive. Risk factors for this type of cancer include:
- Age over 50
- Family history
- Genetic factors
- Lifestyle influences
Prostate cancer may not have any signs early on, which is why screening is important.
Prostate screenings often include a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, which measures PSA levels in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate cancer but may also result from BPH or prostatitis. A digital rectal exam allows a doctor to check for irregularities or hard areas. If results raise concerns, additional tests like an MRI or biopsy may be recommended for further evaluation. If symptoms are experienced, they may include:
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area
- Changes in urinary habits
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Painful or difficult urination
Treatment options depend on the cancer’s stage and aggressiveness. Active surveillance may be recommended for slow-growing cases. Surgery or radiation therapy is common for localized or higher-risk cancers. If the cancer has spread, hormone therapy or chemotherapy may be used to slow its progression.
Maintaining Prostate Health
The prostate may be small, but it significantly impacts your health. Knowing the answer to “What does the prostate do?” and understanding common concerns can help you stay healthy.
While there is no guaranteed method to prevent this diseases, certain steps can help, including:
- Routine check-ups and screening
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Staying active and keeping a healthy weight
If you are wondering more about “what does a prostate do?” Partner with an expert in Men’s Health—call 541.334.3350 to schedule an appointment today!