The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. It sits just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. One of its primary functions is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and protects sperm. This fluid combines with sperm during ejaculation to form semen, helping sperm travel efficiently.
The prostate plays a big role in men’s health and is prone to changes as you age, which can affect its size and function.
What’s the Normal Size of Prostate?
A healthy adult’s prostate is about the size of a walnut and weighs about 1 ounce, or 30 grams.
The prostate does not remain the same size throughout life. In fact, it undergoes two significant growth phases.
The first is during puberty when the prostate doubles in size.
Once you reach 25, the gland begins to grow again slowly, continuing throughout adulthood. By middle age, this second growth phase can lead to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate.
What Happens When the Prostate Enlarges?
As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra. This added pressure makes it harder for urine to pass through easily and can interfere with flow. Over time, narrowing of the urethra can result in several symptoms, including:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Urinary urgency
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Feeling like your bladder is not entirely empty even after voiding
These symptoms can vary in severity. It might only be a mild inconvenience for some men, while others find it impacts their daily routine.
In rare cases, an enlarged prostate can completely block the flow of urine, which needs urgent medical attention.
Who is Affected by Prostate Enlargement?
Prostate enlargement is extremely common, particularly as men age. Aging is the most significant risk factor for BPH. By age 50, about half of men show signs of prostate enlargement, and about 80% of men over age 70 are affected.
Factors that increase the risk of BPH include:
- Family history
- Lifestyle factors
- Hormonal changes
Hormonal dynamics make BPH common for many men. However, it’s crucial to distinguish BPH from other prostate issues, like prostate cancer.
Is an Enlarged Prostate the Same as Prostate Cancer?
While both BPH and prostate cancer can cause urinary symptoms, they are not the same condition.
- BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that does not spread to other parts of the body. It can be uncomfortable but is usually not dangerous.
- Prostate cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the prostate. If left untreated, it can spread to other organs, such as the bones or lungs, and may become life-threatening.
An important thing to know about prostate cancer is that it can develop without causing any noticeable symptoms. This makes regular prostate screenings essential for catching it early and ensuring timely, effective treatment.
Why Prostate Health Matters
Although BPH is not cancer, its symptoms can be frustrating and exhausting. If left untreated, severe BPH can lead to complications, including:
- Bladder infections
- Urinary retention
- Bladder stones
- Kidney damage
What to Expect During a Prostate Exam
If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms or want to stay proactive about your prostate health, a urologist can perform an evaluation that may include a(n):
- Digital rectal exam (DRE), where the doctor gently inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the size, shape, and texture of your prostate.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. High PSA levels can indicate BPH, prostate cancer, or other prostate conditions.
- Imaging tests like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan for a detailed view of the prostate.
If there is concern about prostate cancer, a small tissue sample or biopsy may be taken for further analysis.
Find Out if You Have a Normal Size of Prostate
If you’ve been wondering about the normal size of prostate and if you may have an enlarged prostate, it’s time to see a urologist. They can help you better understand the health of your prostate and provide treatment if needed.
If you’re noticing changes in your urinary habits or have concerns about your prostate, don’t delay – schedule an appointment today!