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The Prostate
Prostate Gland Enlargement
PSA Test
Prostate Cancer
The Prostate
The prostate gland is located just below a man’s bladder,
behind the pubic bone and in front of the
rectum. It surrounds the top portion of the urethra, which
functions as the tube that drains urine
from the bladder. The main function of the prostate is to
produce many of the fluids present in semen,
the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during
ejaculation.
The most important fluid produced by the prostate is the
slightly alkaline fluid which accounts for up to 30% of the
volume of seminal fluid. This fluid, along with spermatozoa,
is what makes up semen. The remaining seminal fluid is
produced by the seminal vesicles. The alkalinity of seminal
fluid is vitally important, as it helps of prolong the
lifespan of sperm by neutralizing the acidity present in the
vaginal tract.
The prostate also contains smooth muscles that assist in
expelling semen during ejaculation. Prostate health is vital
for men, both in terms of reproduction and healthy sexual
functioning.
Healthy Prostate Development
When a male is born, his prostate is about the size of a pea.
It grows little during childhood, up until puberty, when it
experiences a growth spurt. The prostate reaches full
development around the age of 25, at which point it is the
size of a walnut.
Most men experience another phase of prostate growth during
their 40s. Cells in the central portion of the gland, the area
where the prostate surrounds the urethra, reproduce more
rapidly. This prostate gland enlargement presents some
difficulties for many men as they continue to age. Prostate
enlargement can lead to a condition called Benign Prostatic
Hyperplasia (BPH). It has no impact on the
development of prostate cancer. Good prostate health typically
involves some enlargement; however, significant enlargement
can cause prostate symptoms that should be addressed by a
physician.
Prostate Exams
A digital rectal exam (DRE) is
the least invasive method for a doctor to examine the
prostate. This procedure involves the insertion of a finger
into the rectum. During a prostate exam, the doctor is
assessing the feel and shape of the prostate. A healthy
prostate is triangular in shape and 2-4 cm long. A healthy
prostate will feel firm and rubbery.
This exam can detect an enlarged prostate and whether or not
there may be evidence of prostate cancer. If prostate
abnormalities are detected, further tests will follow,
typically starting with a PSA test.
Prostate health is vital to a man's overall health and
functioning. Opinion differs about when men should begin
having prostate exams, however, it is generally accepted that
men between the ages of 45 -50 should be having regular exams.
Also, men who exhibit potential prostate symptoms, such as
difficulty urinating or
erectile dysfunction, should undergo a
prostate exam to rule out the prostate
gland as the cause of the symptoms.
Prostate Symptoms
Good prostate health is central to a man's overall health and
well-being. The prostate plays a critical role in terms of
healthy urination, sexual functioning, and overall sexual
well-being. Some men report an ability to reach orgasm through
simple prostate stimulation. This is the reason why the
prostate is sometimes called a man's "g-spot".
Symptoms of potential prostate problems include difficult or
slow urination, and erectile dysfunction or interference with
normal sexual functioning and ejaculation. The presence of any
of these symptoms may not be attributed to the prostate;
however, it is typically one of the first considerations when
a patient presents with signs of potentially poor prostate
health.
These prostate symptoms could be signs of benign prostatic
hyperplasia (BHP), also know as
prostate gland enlargement, Prostatitis
(prostate inflammation), or even prostate cancer. Only a
physician can assess these symptoms and arrive at a diagnosis.
Many people believe that a healthful diet, regular exercise,
and the avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption help
maintain good prostate health. As these behaviors are central
to good overall health, they are highly recommended in terms
of prostate health as well.
The Digital Urology Channel
offers
information about the prostate and prostate gland diseases
and conditions. The
Prostate
Cancer Coalition website is an excellent resource for
those managing the disease. |
