Reproductive system
Prostate Gland
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland below the bladder in men. It makes fluid that forms part of semen. It commonly enlarges with age, which can affect urination.
What it is
The prostate is a small gland surrounding the top of the urethra (the tube carrying urine out) just below the bladder.
Where it is
Below the bladder, in front of the rectum, surrounding the urethra.
What it does
Produces fluid that nourishes and carries sperm, forming part of semen, and helps propel semen during ejaculation.
How it works
The prostate adds its fluid to sperm as semen passes through during ejaculation. Because it wraps around the urethra, changes in its size can affect the flow of urine.
When things go wrong
Common conditions affecting the prostate gland
- Benign prostate enlargement (common with age, affecting urination)
- Prostatitis (inflammation)
- Prostate cancer
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms and is not a diagnosis. Sudden severe symptoms — such as severe chest pain, breathlessness or collapse — are an emergency; call 999.
Looking after it
Keeping your prostate gland healthy
Men with urinary symptoms or concerns should see a GP; PSA testing and examination help assess the prostate, and decisions about testing are made together with a clinician.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
The prostate naturally enlarges with age, which is why urinary symptoms become more common in older men.
Answers
Prostate Gland: frequently asked questions
What does the prostate do?
The prostate makes fluid that forms part of semen and helps carry and nourish sperm. It sits below the bladder around the urine tube.
What are the signs of prostate problems?
A weaker urine flow, needing to go more often or urgently, or getting up at night to urinate are common with prostate enlargement. New symptoms are worth discussing with a GP.
The reproductive system
Related organs
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students
- TeachMeAnatomy / TeachMePhysiology
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