What is the Prostate Gland

The prostate gland is an exocrine that is part of the the male reproductive system. It functions are to support the male reproductive process. The main function of the prostate is to produce a clear liquid that makes up about 1/3rd of the composition of semen.

The functions of the prostate are:

• Secretes fluid that make up 1/3 of the volume of semen
• Secretes nutrients such as zinc, citric acid , amino acids and vitamins that are believed to help nourish the semen. Semen are able to fertilize the egg without these nutrients supplied by the prostate.
• Assists the sperm in outward ejaculation preventing the sperm from moving into the bladder
• Secretion of acid phosphatase and prostatic specific antigen (PSA) whihc are enzymes that help the sperm swim.  Secretion of prostaglandins which mimic hormones and effect the females genital tract helping the sperm reach the egg.

The prostate gland is walnut shaped and sized and surrounds the urethra right below the bladder. It is located directly above the rectum and this is why it can be felt during a DRE (digital rectal examination).

The prostate functions are controlled by male hormones called androgens. The main male hormone is testosterone and the main supply of male hormones is produced by the testicles. A small amount of male hormones is produced by the adrenal glands.


The anatomy and function of the prostate is important in understanding prostate cancer and how it is screened for and how it grows and will spread. The location of the prostate in relation to the rectum makes this an ideal location for your doctor to palpate the gland and see if it misshapen or if it has a unusual shape or texture. These are often signs that prostate cancer is present.

Understanding the role that the male hormones play on the prostate helps us to understand why hormone therapy is effective in preventing the spread and growth of prostate cancer.


As men age the prostate will often enlarge. This is a natural part of the life of the prostate but can lead to difficulty in urination. The enlargement of the prostate is called BPH or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Some of the symptoms that present with this enlargement of the prostate if you have BPH can mimin prostate cancer. If the symptoms of BPH persist it can be treated with medication or surgery that removes part of the prostate. The surgical procedure that is often done to reduce the symptoms of BPH is called a TURP or Transurethral Resection of the Prostate. To remove the part of the prostate around the urethra a special tool is inserted through the urethra a removes the tissue of the prostate that is pressing against the urethra which will free the flow of urine and relieve the symptoms.

Another condition that can effect the prostate is inflammation of the prostate which is called prostatitis. Prostatitis is often cause by an infection and can be treated with antibiotics, prostate massage or surgery.