The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. Located just beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum, it surrounds the urethra, the tube carrying urine out of the body. The primary function of the prostate is to produce seminal fluid, which combines with sperm from the testicles to form semen. This fluid nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. The prostate’s muscles also expel semen during ejaculation and control urine flow by closing the urethra at the bladder.
Understanding Normal Prostate Size
A healthy adult prostate is typically compared to the size of a walnut. It generally weighs 15-25 grams and has a volume of 20-30 cubic centimeters (cc), though dimensions vary.
The prostate naturally changes in size throughout a man’s life. It undergoes a growth spurt during puberty, doubling in size. A second growth phase typically begins around age 25 and continues gradually over many years. While a young adult’s prostate might be around 15.6 ml, by age 40, it may begin to enlarge to the size of an apricot. For men in their 40s, the average weight can be around 28.2 grams, increasing to about 30.8 grams in their 50s, and 35 grams for those in their 60s. By age 60, some prostates can reach the size of a lemon.
Factors Influencing Prostate Size
Several conditions can lead to an increase in prostate size. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that often occurs as men age. In BPH, the cells within the prostate gland multiply, causing it to grow and potentially compress the urethra. This condition affects approximately half of men over 50 and nearly 90% of men over 80. Hormonal changes associated with aging are thought to play a role.
Prostate cancer is another condition that can cause prostate enlargement. Unlike BPH, prostate cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal, malignant cells within the gland. While BPH does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, both conditions can present with similar symptoms due to their impact on prostate size.
Prostatitis, which is inflammation of the prostate, can also lead to temporary enlargement. This condition often affects men between 30 and 50 years old and can result from bacterial infections or inflammation of the urinary tract. Prostatitis can cause swelling and discomfort, contributing to an increase in the gland’s size.
When to Seek Medical Consultation
Seek medical consultation if you experience symptoms indicating prostate enlargement or other prostate issues. Common symptoms include difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted urine stream, or the need to strain to urinate. Other signs include frequent urination, especially at night, a sudden and urgent need to urinate, or the feeling that your bladder has not fully emptied. Pain during urination or blood in the urine also warrants medical attention.
Medical professionals employ several methods to assess prostate size and health. A Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) involves a doctor manually feeling the prostate to check its size, shape, and consistency. Blood tests, such as the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, measure a protein produced by the prostate, with elevated levels potentially indicating a prostate condition. Imaging techniques like transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) or MRI can provide precise measurements of prostate volume and help identify any abnormalities. Consulting a healthcare provider for regular check-ups or when symptoms arise is important for diagnosis and management.