Prostrate

Prostate is a part of the male reproductive system that produces a fluid that mixes with sperm and other fluids during ejaculation. These fluids nourish and transport sperm during ejaculation. The prostate is about the size of a walnut and surrounds the neck of the bladder and urethra, the tube through which urine passes through the body.

Anatomy

The prostate is located beneath the bladder, in front of the rectum. It surrounds the upper part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. The prostate is made up of two types of tissue: glandular and muscular. The glandular tissue produces prostate fluid, while the muscular tissue helps to expel semen during ejaculation.

Function

The primary function of the prostate is to produce and store a clear, slightly alkaline fluid that constitutes 10-30% of the volume of the semen along with spermatozoa and seminal vesicle fluid. The alkalinity of the prostate fluid helps to neutralize the acidity of the vaginal tract, prolonging the lifespan of sperm.

Prostate Disorders

There are several common disorders of the prostate, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. BPH is an enlargement of the prostate that can cause problems with urination. Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate, often caused by bacteria. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of prostate disorders is often made through a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies. Treatment options vary depending on the specific disorder and may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

See Also

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Prostatitis
• Prostate cancer
• Prostate-specific antigen