Prostate health: symptoms, checks and how to support your prostate
Written byJodi M Johnson
Reviewed bySanjana Bhatt
Your prostate may be small, but it has a big impact on your health. Learn the signs of prostate problems, what to expect from a prostate check and how to support your prostate health
Summary
1What is the prostate?
The prostate is a small gland that's only found in men. It’s typically about the size and shape of a walnut, although it usually grows larger with age
2Common prostate problems
An enlarged prostate is one of the most common prostate conditions. It isn’t cancer and doesn’t increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.
3Prostate checks: what to expect
Many men feel anxious about having a prostate check, but the examination is usually quick and straightforward.
The prostate plays an important role in men's health. As you get older, it's common for the prostate to change – and many men will experience prostate-related symptoms at some point in their lives. Understanding prostate health can help you recognise the signs of prostate problems, know when to seek medical advice and learn how to support your prostate as you age. That's why we’ve explained what the prostate is, what it does, the most common prostate conditions, enlarged prostate symptoms, what happens during a prostate check and ways to support your overall prostate health.
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a small gland that's only found in men. In younger adults, it's typically about the size and shape of a walnut, although it usually grows larger with age.1 Located just below the bladder, the prostate surrounds the upper part of the urethra – the tube that carries urine out of the body.2 Due to its position, changes to the prostate can sometimes affect urination.3 The prostate is also part of the male reproductive system, producing a fluid that mixes with sperm to create semen.1
Where is the prostate?
The prostate sits:
- directly beneath the bladder1
- in front of the rectum1
- around the upper section of the urethra1
The three zones of the prostate
The prostate is divided into three main areas: 4
- transition zone: this is the smallest section and surrounds the urethra. It’s also the area most commonly affected by benign enlargement as men get older.5
- central zone: this area surrounds the ejaculatory ducts and contributes to semen production.1
- peripheral zone: the largest part of the prostate, this region contains most of the glandular tissue responsible for producing prostate fluid.6
What does the prostate do?
Although it's relatively small, the prostate has several important functions.
It supports fertility
The prostate produces a milky fluid that forms part of semen. This fluid helps nourish and protect sperm while improving their ability to move, increasing the chances of successful pregnancy.1,7,8
It helps control the flow of urine and semen
The prostate works with muscles around the bladder to ensure urine and semen travel in the correct direction.1 During ejaculation, muscles close the bladder opening to prevent semen entering the bladder. During urination, the reproductive tract is closed to prevent urine mixing with semen.1
It helps process hormones
The prostate contains an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that plays an important role in male development and prostate function.9
The most common prostate conditions
Several conditions can affect prostate health, particularly as men get older.
An enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is one of the most common prostate conditions.3 It naturally increases in size as men age, so, by the age of 60, it may be considerably larger than it was in early adulthood. Not every man develops symptoms, but around half of men over 50 experience some degree of urinary problems linked to an enlarged prostate – as the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra, making it more difficult for urine to pass.3 Ageing, hormone changes and genetics may all contribute to prostate enlargement, although the exact cause is still not fully understood.3 It isn’t cancer and doesn’t increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.3
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate.10 It can occur in men of any age and may be caused by a bacterial infection (like a UTI) or other factors.10 Symptoms can include pelvic pain, discomfort when urinating and pain during ejaculation.10
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men.11 In its early stages, it often causes no symptoms, which is why understanding your personal risk and speaking to your GP about a prostate check is important if you have concerns.12,13
Signs of prostate problems
Many prostate conditions share similar symptoms. While these symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions such as an enlarged prostate, it's always worth getting them checked. Common signs of prostate problems include:
- needing to urinate more often, especially at night 14
- difficulty starting to urinate 14
- a weak or slow urine stream 14
- stopping and starting while urinating 15
- straining to empty the bladder 15
- feeling that your bladder hasn't emptied completely 14
- a sudden or urgent need to urinate 14
- dribbling after urination 14
- discomfort or pain when urinating
It's a good idea to arrange an appointment if you notice any persistent signs of prostate problems. If you notice blood in your urine or semen, develop severe pain or find yourself unable to pass urine, it’s very important to seek medical advice. 15
What happens during a prostate check?
Many men feel anxious about having a prostate check, but the examination is usually quick and straightforward.16 A GP may recommend a prostate check if you have urinary symptoms, a strong family history of prostate cancer or other concerns.17 A prostate assessment may include a physical exam or a PSA blood test.
How to keep your prostate healthy
Although ageing can’t be prevented, healthy lifestyle habits may help support overall prostate health. Here are some practical ways to support your prostate.
Stay physically active
Regular exercise supports overall health and may help maintain a healthy weight, which is linked with better prostate health.18 Carrying excess weight may increase the risk of urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.18
Eat a balanced diet
Some foods and nutrients, including tomatoes (lycopene), oily fish, soya, selenium, vitamin E and zinc, have been studied for their potential role in supporting prostate health. While some research has shown promising results, the evidence is mixed, so no single food or supplement has been proven to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.18 It’s best to eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, healthy fats and lean proteins to support overall wellbeing.19,20
Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water can support urinary health, but more isn't always better. Research suggests that staying well hydrated may help with symptoms such as a weak urine stream or difficulty emptying the bladder.21 However, drinking excessive amounts of fluid may make symptoms like frequent or urgent urination worse.21 Aim to stay hydrated throughout the day and speak to your GP if urinary symptoms are affecting your daily life.21
Get enough sleep
A good night's sleep can have a positive impact on your mood, stress levels and overall wellbeing. To improve your sleep, try sticking to a regular bedtime, winding down with a book or relaxation exercises, avoiding screens before bed and limiting caffeine, alcohol and heavy meals later in the day.22
Prostate FAQs
Women don’t have a prostate gland. However, they have small glands near the urethra, sometimes called the Skene's glands (or female prostate), although they have a different function.
Research suggests that men with an enlarged prostate and more severe urinary symptoms are more likely to experience problems such as reduced sex drive, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, ejaculation problems and lower sexual satisfaction.23 However, these symptoms aren't experienced by everyone. 23 If changes to your sex life are worrying you, speak to your GP, who can help identify the cause and discuss the most suitable treatment options. 23
There isn't a routine prostate screening programme for all men in the UK.24 Whether you need a prostate check depends on factors including your age, symptoms and family history. If you're over 50, have a close relative who has had prostate cancer or you're concerned about your prostate health, it's worth discussing your individual risk with your GP.
The final say
Looking after your prostate health is an important part of healthy ageing. While prostate changes are common, particularly later in life, many conditions can be managed successfully when they're identified early. So, if you're wondering how to keep your prostate healthy, focusing on regular exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and speaking to your healthcare professional about any persistent symptoms is a good place to start.
For more on men’s health, head over to our simple guide all about erectile dysfunction or check out these seven health symptoms men should never ignore.
Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and isn’t a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
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