Overview
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a small gland in men. It is part of the male reproductive system.
The prostate is about the size and shape of a walnut. It sits low in the pelvis, below the bladder and just in front of the rectum. The prostate helps make semen, the milky fluid that carries sperm from the testicles through the penis when a man ejaculates.
The prostate surrounds part of the urethra, a tube that carries urine out of the bladder and through the penis.
How does the prostate change as you get older?
The prostate gland surrounds the tube (urethra) that passes urine. This can be a source of problems as a man ages because:
The prostate tends to grow bigger with age and may squeeze the urethra (see drawing) or
A tumor can make the prostate bigger
These changes, or an infection, can cause problems passing urine. Sometimes men in their 30s and 40s may begin to have these urinary symptoms and need medical attention. For others, symptoms aren't noticed until much later in life. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any urinary symptoms.
What prostate changes should you be aware of?
Growing older raises your risk of prostate problems. The three most common prostate problems are:
Infection (prostatitis)
Enlarged prostate ( BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia)
Prostate cancer
One change does not lead to another. For example, having prostatitis or an enlarged prostate does not raise your chance of prostate cancer. It is also possible for you to have more than one condition at the same time.
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