Prostate

The prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland located in the pelvic area, just below the outlet of the bladder and in front of the rectum. It encircles the upper part of the urethra, which is the tube that empties urine from the bladder. The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system. It requires male hormones, like testosterone, to function properly. The main function of the prostate gland is to store and produce seminal fluid. Seminal fluid is a milky liquid that nourishes sperm. Conditions affecting the prostate gland include: Prostatitis – Inflammation of the prostate gland. It is often the result of a bacterial infection. Enlarged prostate: – A non-cancerous growth of the prostate that can interfere with urination. Symptoms include an urgent feeing to urinate, weak urinary stream, frequent need to urinate, and involuntary discharge of urine. Prostate cancer: This is the most common cancer in American men. Prostate cancer grows slowly and may not spread for many years. Symptoms include difficulty starting urine flow, pain during urination, loss of weight and appetite, blood in urine, and painful ejaculation. A prostate exam can help prevent prostate cancer.