Did you know that about 50% of men between 51 and 60 have an enlarged prostate?
Many people wonder what is the purpose of a prostate gland. Well, it plays a vital role in the male reproductive system, as well as the urinary system. An enlarged prostate can cause symptoms such as lower back pain, urinary incontinence, urgency in urination, and problems with sexual intimacy.
Fortunately, you can manage prostate issues and diseases through proper diagnosis and treatment. But, you first have to learn some basic facts about the prostate to find the best treatment plan to resolve whatever issue you are experiencing.
So, keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
What is the Purpose of a Prostate?
The prostate is about the size of a walnut and comprises two main lobes, the left and right, that are separated by a thin layer of tissue. It is below the bladder and in front of the rectum.
The purpose of the prostate is to produce fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. The prostate also helps to drive the ejaculation of semen during sexual intercourse.
Furthermore, the prostate also helps to keep the urinary tract healthy. It is thought to produce substances that help to protect the urinary tract from infection.
What are the Prostate Zones?
The prostate has three main zones: the peripheral zone, the central zone, and the transitional zone. The peripheral zone is the outermost area of the gland and makes up about 70% of the prostate.
Additionally, the central zone is the middle area of the gland and makes up about 20% of the prostate. And the transitional zone is the innermost area of the gland and makes up about 10% of the prostate.
What are the Different Prostate Conditions
Prostate conditions are very common as men get older. The most common conditions are an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) and prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer usually develops slowly, and many men do not experience symptoms in the early stages of the disease.
However, some men may experience urinary problems, such as difficulty urinating or needing to urinate more frequently. In some cases, prostate cancer can spread to other body parts, such as the bones or lymph nodes, and cause more severe symptoms.
There are prostate health programs that can help prevent certain conditions. It involves health supplements and certain equipment that improves prostate health. For more information on how to improve prostate health, see this page.
Getting a Prostate Exam
A prostate exam is important for detecting prostate cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable. The exam is usually done during a routine physical exam and may involve a digital rectal exam (DRE) to check for any abnormal changes in the prostate.
A prostate exam is generally quick and easy and does not cause pain.
Maintain a Healthy Prostate Today
For those asking, ” what is the purpose of a prostate?”, it is a gland that helps produce seminal fluid, a key component of semen. It also helps to transport semen during ejaculation.
A healthy prostate is essential for reproductive health. If you are concerned about your prostate health, talk to your doctor. Getting a prostate exam can help mitigate the risks of cancer.
Have this article helped you out? For more info, check the rest of our blog for other related topics!
