The small organ with a big impact on men's health
The prostate gland, also known as the prostate, is a small, chestnut-sized organ located directly below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. Despite its small size, it plays a central role in the male body: it is part of the reproductive system , produces a significant portion of seminal fluid, and indirectly influences urine flow, erectile function, and hormonal balance .
With increasing age, especially from the age of 40, changes in prostate function can occur, affecting many men but often being detected too late.
What is the function of the prostate gland?
The prostate gland produces a slightly alkaline secretion that makes up about 20–30% of the ejaculate. This secretion:
- Protects sperm in the acidic environment of the vagina.
- Supports their mobility
- Contributes to male fertility potential
- Contains prostate-specific antigen (PSA) , an enzyme that liquefies the ejaculate.
Furthermore, the prostate influences the hormonal balance , urine flow (due to its location around the urethra) and sexual function .
What can throw the prostate out of balance?
From middle age onwards, changes in the prostate gland often occur, some benign, some pathological.
Common problems:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Benign enlargement
- Prostatitis: Inflammatory reaction, often caused by bacteria or irritation
- Prostate cancer: The most common form of cancer in men over 50
- Hormonal imbalances: e.g., high estrogen levels, excess DHT
Risk factors:
- Age over 45
- Family history (e.g., father or brother with prostate cancer)
- Chronic inflammatory stress
- Lack of exercise and obesity
- Testosterone/estrogen imbalance
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Symptoms of impaired prostate function
Many men only notice the first signs late or misinterpret them. If detected early, many prostate problems can be treated effectively.
Typical warning signs:
- Weakened or interrupted urine stream
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
- Pain when urinating or ejaculating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Erection problems
- Pain in the lower back or pelvis
Tip: Many of these symptoms are not directly dangerous, but can be early indicators of prostate changes.
How can the prostate be examined?
A comprehensive prostate check should include the following components:
- Medical history: complaints, lifestyle, family risks
- PSA level in the blood: Provides information about prostate volume and changes.
- Digital rectal examination (DRE): Standard procedure from age 45 at the urologist
- Possibly ultrasound or MRI if abnormalities are found.
- Hormone status: Consider the interplay of DHT, testosterone, and estradiol
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How can prostate health be promoted?
You can actively control many factors that affect the prostate:
- Reduce body fat: Lowers aromatase and inflammatory load
- Zinc-rich diet (e.g., nuts, pumpkin seeds)
- Lycopene from Tomatoes: Antioxidant Protection
- Exercise and sport: Reduces systemic inflammation
- Drink enough fluids, but especially reduce your fluid intake in the evening.
- Targeted hormone profile check for symptoms
Plant-based substances such as saw palmetto, nettle root or pygeum africanum have also shown evidence of BPH relief in studies, but are not a substitute for medical treatment.
Conclusion
The prostate gland is small, but extremely important for men's health. It influences fertility, sexuality, urinary function, and hormonal balance. Changes are common with age, but can be detected early and treated effectively.
Regular check-ups, such as our PSA test from Adon Health , ensure long-term control, safety, and flexibility for your health.
