About the prostate
What Is the Prostate? What Is Normal?
Many men are not sure what their prostate is, what it does, or when to call a doctor if they think they might have a problem. Information is the best tool you have in dealing with this aspect of men’s health.
The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system, which includes the penis, prostate, seminal vesicles, and testicles. Within the body, the prostate is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. A normal prostate is about the size of a walnut and surrounds the urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder). It produces fluid that makes up a part of semen.¹
When should I visit a Urologist?
If you start experiencing urinary symptoms and are under the care of a primary care physician, they may refer you to see a urologist. You should talk to your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- High or rising PSA
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted flow of urine
- Urinating often, especially at night
- Trouble emptying the bladder completely
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that does not go away
- Painful ejaculation
Symptoms vary for people with prostate disease. Some men do not have symptoms at all. Be sure to visit your doctor for routine checkups and ask about PSA testing.