While women do not possess a prostate gland identical to that found in men, they do have a homologous structure. This female anatomical feature is widely recognized as Skene’s glands, also known as paraurethral glands. These glands share a common embryonic origin with the male prostate, leading some to refer to them as the “female prostate.” This article clarifies their anatomy, physiological functions, and historical context.
Identifying the Female Prostate
Skene’s glands are small, pea-sized structures situated within the anterior wall of the vagina, around the lower end of the urethra. Typically, there are two main glands, though their exact size and configuration vary among individuals. These branched, tubular structures develop from the same embryological tissues as the male prostate, highlighting their homologous nature.
The glands are encased by tissue that engorges with blood during sexual arousal, stimulating fluid secretion. Each Skene’s gland has a duct system leading to openings in the vulvar vestibule, near the urethral meatus. Some ducts may also open directly into the urethra. Histologically, these glands contain secretory cells and smooth muscle fibers, similar to the male prostate.
Role of Paraurethral Glands
The paraurethral glands produce a fluid described as milk-like or viscous white in consistency. This secretion contains specific biochemical markers also found in male prostatic fluid, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP). The fluid may also contain glucose and fructose.
These secretions contribute to several physiological functions. They lubricate the urethral opening and urethra, assisting during sexual activity. The fluid may also possess antimicrobial properties, helping protect against urinary tract infections. Research indicates Skene’s glands are the source of female ejaculation, typically a small volume (a few milliliters) of thick, milky fluid expelled during sexual arousal or orgasm. This is distinct from “squirting,” which involves a larger volume of fluid that is primarily urine.
Understanding the Historical Context
The existence of a prostate-like structure in females has been recognized for centuries. The Dutch anatomist Reinier de Graaf first provided an anatomical description of these glands in 1672, even using the term “female prostate” at that time. However, widespread knowledge and detailed study of these structures remained limited for a considerable period. The historical focus on male reproductive anatomy often led to less attention being paid to homologous female structures.
In 1880, Scottish gynecologist Alexander Skene brought renewed attention to these glands, leading to their eponymous naming as “Skene’s glands.” Despite this, the concept of a “female prostate” remained debated within the medical community. It was not until 2002 that the term “female prostate” was officially added as a secondary term to “paraurethral gland” in the Terminologia Histologica, an international anatomical standard. This reflected growing scientific evidence of their morphological and immunological similarities to the male prostate.