Prostate Cancer: Risk Factors Symptoms And Treatment
Aside from prostatitis and BPH, another common prostate issue is prostate cancer.
Excluding skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among American men, according to the American Cancer Society. About 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.
The risk of developing prostate cancer is higher for men who are over age 65, are African-American, or have a family history of the disease.
Most often, prostate cancer develops slowly, but some men develop an aggressive form of the disease.
Early prostate cancer generally doesn’t cause any symptoms. Symptoms generally develop as the disease progresses and include:
- Urination issues
- Bone pain
- Numbness of the legs and feet
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
The Prostate Produces Seminal Fluid
Semen is produced by both the prostate gland and the seminal vesicles, a pair of glands attached to the prostate.
The fluid produced by the prostate gland mixes with the sperm and produces semen. During sex, the muscles of the prostate contract and ejaculate the prostate fluid and sperm into the urethra.
Does Masturbation Help Prevent Prostate Enlargement
Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â its anonymous and free!
Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â its anonymous and free!
HealthTap doctors are based in the U.S., board certified, and available by text or video.
Dont Miss: Does An Enlarged Prostate Affect A Man Sexually
Read Also: Bph Drugs Comparison
Introduction: Anatomy And Function Of The Prostate Gland
The prostate gland is an accessory male reproductive organ, located at the base of the bladder, and surrounding the urethra. It produces prostatic secretions that contain zinc, citric acid, calcium, phosphates, and other enzymes essential for sperm health and motility. At ejaculation, semen passes through the ejaculatory ducts and mixes with secretions from the prostate gland .
Fig. 1. Anatomical zones of the prostate. The prostate consists of four anatomical zones the centreal , peripheral , and transition zones, and the anterior fibromuscular stroma .
Prostatic fluids arise from the epithelial cells lining the ducts that are separated from surrounding stroma by a basement membrane. The epithelium consists of basal, neuroendocrine and secretory cells and it is polarized so that the secretions arise at the luminal aspect of the epithelium including prostatic-specific antigen . Basally located epithelial cells secrete extracellular matrix for the basement membrane and also include the stem and stem progenitor populations. The surrounding fibromuscular stroma consists of smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, nerves, endothelial cells, immune cells, and blood vessels. The smooth muscle component provides contractility that is required when proteins are exuded from the glands .
Fig. 2. Distribution of cell types within the prostate. The prostate is a glandular organ, consisting of an epithelial and stromal component, separated by a basement membrane.
Tracey S. Chenier, in, 2009
Whats The Function Of The Prostate
It provides spermatozoids anIt surrounds a segment of the urethra, you can better understand what the role of this organ is in the human body.The prostate is a non-vital but important part of the male reproductive system,What is the function of a prostate? The actual function of the prostate gland produces the prostate fluid that is one of the components that will help to prepare the seminal fluid into the urethra for the process of ejaculation, This process can be known as prostate functioning, The primary function of the prostate gland is the production of seminal fluid, The muscular actions of the prostate also propel, This process can be known as prostate functioning.
Also Check: Prostate Definition Medical
Facts About The Prostate And Prostate Cancer
Posted on 9/16/20 by Laura Snider
The prostate is a gland of the male reproductive system that is located just below the bladder. It contains the ejaculatory ducts and a portion of the urethra, which carries semen out of the body during ejaculation.
The prostate within the pelvic cavity. Image from Human Anatomy Atlas.
Regular prostate health screenings are an important part of preventative healthcare for men. This is because prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men and, as with many other cancers, early detection and treatment greatly increase the survival rate.
Today, were going to discuss five key facts about the prostates functions and the conditions that affect itnot just cancer, but also less life-threatening conditions such as prostatitis and benign prostate hyperplasia .
If You Are A Trans Woman
If you are a trans woman and have had genital-gender affirming surgery as part of your transition, you still have a prostate. It is important to talk to your GP or nurse if you are worried about prostate cancer or have symptoms.
Prostate cancer UK have detailed information about trans women and prostate cancer.
The LGBT Foundation can also give you confidential advice and support. You can also talk to one of our cancer support specialists.
You May Like: How Are Fiducial Markers Placed In The Prostate
Pde5 Inhibitors: Viagra Levitra And Cialis
Approved by the FDA in 1998, sildenafil revolutionized the way we think about and treat erectile dysfunction, largely because it is so easy to use and effective. Since then the FDA has approved three closely related drugs, vardenafil , avanafil and tadalafil .
All four drugs work in a similar fashion, by affecting the normal physiology of the penis. In particular, they block PDE5, an enzyme that breaks down the erection-producing chemical cyclic guanosine monophosphate. This enables the penis to fill with blood and to stay erect long enough for intercourse. Of course, its important to realize that none of these drugs is an aphrodisiac. Youve got to feel sexually stimulated in order for them to work.
The main differences between the drugs have to do with timing: how quickly they begin to work, and how long their effects last . Levitra may start working slightly faster than Viagra although the FDA says that like Viagra, it should be taken about an hour before sexual activity. Some studies suggest that Levitra may help some men who dont respond to Viagra. And while some doctors are skeptical about this claim, theres no harm in trying Levitra or Cialis if Viagra doesnt work for you.
Cialis has also been approved to treat men with both erectile dysfunction and BPH. The dose is lower, usually 5 milligrams per day.
When To Contact A Medical Professional
- Less urine than usual
- Back, side, or abdominal pain
- Blood or pus in your urine
Also call if:
- Your bladder does not feel completely empty after you urinate.
- You take medicines that may cause urinary problems, such as diuretics, antihistamines, antidepressants, or sedatives. DO NOT stop or change your medicines without talking to your provider.
- You have tried self-care steps for 2 months and symptoms have not improved.
Recommended Reading: Finding Prostate Externally
What Are Some Reasons For Prostate Problems
It is believed that many prostate related health problems result from anxiety, stress, inactivity . The human body was not designed to sit for extended periods of time. This is one of the reasons why men who work in an office setting often report the most issues with their prostates.
When a man sits for prolonged periods of time, the prostate and the muscles surrounding it become weakened because there is not as much blood circulating in the area. Vital nutrients are not able to reach the prostate, and over time, its function becomes impaired.
Prostate problems are commonly seen in men who are 50 years of age and older. However, for those who have a family history of prostate related problems or have a sedentary lifestyle may notice problems as early as their 30s or 40s.
Prostate Disease And Ageing
Around 25 per cent of men aged 55 years and over have a prostate condition. This increases to 50 per cent by the age of 70 years. Early stages of prostate disease may have no symptoms.
If you are a man and you are in your 50s or 60s, talk to your doctor about whether you need to have your prostate gland checked and, if so, how often. If you have a family history of prostate disease , talk to your doctor earlier about when prostate checks might be suitable for you.
Also Check: Flomax Side Effects No Ejaculation
Prostatitis Is The Most Common Prostate Problem For Men Younger Than 50
Like many other -itises, prostatitis involves inflammationin this case, the inflammation of the prostate gland. Though BPH typically doesnt affect men younger than 40, prostatitis is often seen in younger men. According to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, nearly half of adult men will receive treatment for prostatitis at some point in their lifetime.
Common symptoms of prostatitis include painful urination, painful ejaculation, increased frequency or urgency of urination, difficulty urinating, cloudy urine, blood in the urine, and pain in the groin, abdomen, perineum, penis, and/or testicles.
If bacteria from the urine leak into the prostate, acute bacterial prostatitis can occur. This might cause flu-like symptoms in addition to those listed above. However, the most common type of prostatitis is chronic prostatitis, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome, which is not caused by bacteria.
Diagnostic tests for prostatitis can include urine and blood tests and imaging tests such as a CT scan or sonogram. Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial prostatitis. As is the case with BPH, alpha blockers can be used to make urination easier for patients with prostatitis. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also help to ease prostatitis pain.
What Is The Prostate
The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system, which includes the penis, prostate, seminal vesicles, and testicles. The prostate is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is about the size of a walnut and surrounds the urethra . It produces fluid that makes up a part of semen.
As a man ages, the prostate tends to increase in size. This can cause the urethra to narrow and decrease urine flow. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia, and it is not the same as prostate cancer. Men may also have other prostate changes that are not cancer.external icon
Links with this icon indicate that you are leaving the CDC website.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
- Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
- You will be subject to the destination website’s privacy policy when you follow the link.
- CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance on other federal or private website.
Also Check: Do Girls Have Prostate Glands
Side View Of The Prostate
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and the penis. The prostate is just in front of the rectum. The urethra runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine flow out of the body.
The prostate secretes fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. During ejaculation, the prostate squeezes this fluid into the urethra, and itâs expelled with sperm as semen.
The vasa deferentia bring sperm from the testes to the seminal vesicles. The seminal vesicles contribute fluid to semen during ejaculation.
With A Massager Strap
If youre playing with sex toys, you can really mix it up by playing with the different vibration settings, as well as pressure and depth.
- Pressure. Controlling pressure when using a toy is easier, especially when youre playing solo. Try pressing the toy against the prostate using more or less pressure till you find your sweet spot.
- Depth. Depth is another area where toys win out since reaching can make it hard to go deep, if thats what you crave. Try different sized anal toys or get a longer one that you can insert as deep as your bottom desires.
- Vibrations. You can buy prostate massagers that offer up multiple speed and pulse settings. Play with the different settings to find your preference. Up the vibes as you get closer to orgasm.
- Sensation. Some prostate massagers have an attached external stimulator to give your perineum some sweet lovin while the other end penetrates. Who doesnt love a hard worker?
Want a little more?
If your partner has a penis, you can kick things up a notch with penis-in-anus penetration. Prostate stimulation for you, penile stimulation for them and a happy ending for you both.
Different positions can make reaching and pleasuring the prostate easier. These positions work for external and internal prostate stimulation, alone and with a partner.
Also Check: Is Zinc Good For Prostate
The Prostate Contains Smooth Muscle That Pushes The Fluid Stored In The Prostate Into The Urethra During Ejaculation
In the image below, you can see that a portion of the urethra runs through the prostate.
The prostatic urethra and the prostate . Image from Human Anatomy Atlas.
Because the urethra is usually how urine gets from the bladder to the outside world, a couple of things need to happen before semen is expelled through the urethra during ejaculation. The bulbourethral glands, which are located just below the prostate, secrete a clear fluid that neutralizes any acidic urine remaining in the urethra before ejaculation and provides lubrication.
The internal urethral sphincter, located just above the prostate, closes to make sure that no urine is released along with semen during ejaculation.
The glandular cells of the prostate secrete the fluid that gets added to the semen, and the smooth muscle of the prostate contracts to squeeze that fluid into the urethra during ejaculation. Smooth muscle within the prostate also closes off the ejaculatory ducts during urination so no urine can get inside them.
If Youre The Giving Partner
Cleanliness and safety are a must, even for the giver.
Cut and file your nails smooth to help avoid scratching or tearing the delicate skin in and around the anus.
Wash your hands thoroughly, even if youre planning to use a condom over your finger to penetrate your partner. For extra comfort, stuff cotton balls inside the condom or glove.
You can also get the party started in the shower together, which serves as foreplay and gets you both all nice and clean for the big show.
Youll probably need to try a few different moves and experiment with speed and pressure to find what feels best.
Here are some techniques to try, whether youre using fingers or toys.
Read Also: How To Do Prostate Milking Yourself
Inflammation Of The Prostate
While prostatitis can affect men of any age, it is more common in younger men, aged between 30 and 50 years. The main types of prostatitis are:
- bacterial prostatitis acute or chronic bacterial infection
- non-bacterial prostatitis inflamed prostate, also known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome .
In most cases, the cause of prostatitis is unknown. Bacterial prostatitis responds well to antibiotic drugs that can get into the prostate.
Non-bacterial prostatitis, or CPPS, is the most common form of prostatitis and is more difficult to manage. Symptoms vary from one man to another. There is no single test to diagnose CPPS, so your doctor will need to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms before making a diagnosis.Possible causes of CPPS include:
- a past bacterial prostatitis infection
- irritation from some chemicals
- chronic anxiety problems.
What Men And Women 35 And Older Must Know About Fertility Infertility And Getting Pregnant
The prostatic fluid mixes with sperm and fluid from the seminal vesicles which makes up the majority of semen and contains various other components, including the fructose that provides the main energy source for sperm outside of the body inside of the urethra.
Changes in the composition or secretion of the prostatic fluid affects the health and function of sperm, impacting male fertility. These changes may arise due to various health issues with the prostate.
Learn More About the Form and Function of the Prostate
Recommended Reading: Does Enlarged Prostate Affect Ejaculation
Its Complicated: Enlarged Prostate And Sex
BPH and sexual function
Prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia , and erectile dysfunction are separate problems. Both increase with age, but one causes problems in the bathroom and the other in the bedroom. However, the two are somewhat linked.
BPH happens when your prostate becomes enlarged, but cancer isnt the cause. A mans prostate continues growing throughout most of his adult life. This is why many older men are affected by the condition.
ED is the inability to get or maintain an erection. It can be caused by physical conditions such as:
It can also be caused by psychological issues.
These two conditions dont necessarily seem linked, but certain treatments that relieve BPH can cause ED and other sexual side effects. On the other hand, treating ED can improve enlarged prostate symptoms.
- inability to empty the bladder
- a weak urine stream
A surgery called transurethral resection of the prostate can help relieve these symptoms. Men who have this procedure often experience sexual side effects after surgery.
Between 50 and 75 percent of men experience retrograde ejaculation after TURP, according to Harvard Medical School. This means that semen released during orgasm enters the bladder rather than exiting the penis. Retrograde ejaculation is sometimes called dry orgasm. Its not harmful but can affect male fertility.
If Youre The Receiving Partner
Youll want to be as relaxed and aroused as possible, because itll make the experience easier and more enjoyable.
The whole poop-comes-out-of-the-butt thing gives some people a case of the heebie-jeebies even when its their own butt.
Remedy this by taking a shower and paying a little extra attention back there to get it squeaky clean. Some people like to use an enema before engaging in butt play, but it isnt necessary.
Use the bathroom before getting started. Prostate stimulation can make you feel like you need to pee, and anal penetration can cause the sensation of needing to poop.
Even though you wont actually do either, worrying that you might can interfere with your ability to let go and enjoy yourself. Knowing your bladder and bowels are empty can help.
Getting used to the sensation of having your prostate touched can help, too. Practice with an anal sex toy, like a butt plug, or your fingers.
Be sure to set the mood so that youre turned on and primed for action. Light candles, watch porn, or engage in some good old-fashioned masturbation or foreplay to get there.
Finally, be sure to lube up real good. Applying a water-based lubricant will allow for easier penetration and make for some easy gliding if stimulating your prostate externally.
Read Also: Testicular Cancer Awareness Color