The Most Common Questions Poles Ask About Prostate Health and Enlarged Prostate

Introduction

Prostate health is an important topic, especially for men over 40. Unfortunately, many people avoid talking about it, which leads to a lack of understanding and fewer regular check-ups. To make things clearer and easier to understand, we’ve put together answers to the most common questions about prostate health and a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This will help men learn more and take better care of themselves.

1. What is the prostate?

The prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. It’s an important part of the male reproductive system and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.¹

2. What is the function of the prostate in men?

The prostate gland is important for the male reproductive system because it makes a special fluid that forms about 20-30% of semen. This fluid is alkaline, which helps balance the acidity in the female reproductive system, keeping sperm safe and healthy. During ejaculation, the prostate’s muscles help push semen out through the urethra. These functions are essential for male fertility and reproductive health.²

3. What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is when the prostate gland grows bigger, but it's not caused by cancer. This usually happens in older men. The enlargement happens because the number of cells in the prostate increases, which can put pressure on the urethra and cause problems with urination. BPH is a common part of getting older and is influenced by changes in hormones, especially testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).³ 

4. What are the symptoms of an enlarged prostate? 

• Needing to pee often, especially at night (nocturia).⁴
• Trouble starting to urinate.⁴
• Weak urine flow.⁴
• Feeling that the bladder isn't fully empty after urinating.⁴

5. Does benign prostatic hyperplasia require surgery?

Surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may be necessary if medications and lifestyle changes don’t relieve severe symptoms or if complications like urinary infections or bladder stones occur. Common procedures include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapy, or prostate lifts. While surgery can help improve symptoms, it may carry risks such as sexual dysfunction or the need for further surgery.⁵

6. Does testosterone affect the prostate?

Yes, Testosterone can affect prostate health, but its impact depends on individual factors. In younger men with low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may increase prostate size and worsen BPH symptoms. In older men, higher testosterone levels don’t always lead to a larger prostate or higher PSA levels. Some studies suggest that balanced testosterone levels may even reduce BPH risk and improve urinary symptoms. The effects of testosterone on prostate health depend on age, hormone levels, and overall health.⁶

7. Is an enlarged prostate cancer?

No, an enlarged prostate, also called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is not cancer and doesn't lead to prostate cancer. BPH is a common condition in older men where the prostate gets bigger, causing urinary problems, but it's not the same as prostate cancer. Studies show that having BPH might even lower the risk of developing prostate cancer, as men with BPH tend to have slower tumor growth if they also have prostate cancer. While both conditions can have similar symptoms and risk factors, they are different in how they affect health.^{4 7}

8. How often should the prostate be examined?

Men over 50 should get checked at least once a year, especially if they have a family history of prostate cancer. Men between 20 and 49 should get checked at least once every two years.⁸

9. What tests are used to diagnose enlarged prostate?

• Digital rectal examination (DRE),
• PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test,
• Prostate ultrasound,
• Urodynamic tests for more advanced symptoms.

10. How to shrink prostate naturally?

Regular exercise, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and eating a healthy diet are important for maintaining prostate health. It’s recommended to cut out fatty meats, milk, and dairy products, and instead include more plant-based foods and fatty fish like salmon. These lifestyle changes can support overall well-being and help prevent prostate issues.⁹

11. What are prostate enlargement treatment? 

Yes, Treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) depend on how severe the symptoms are and how much they affect daily life. Common treatments include:

1. Lifestyle Changes: Simple adjustments like drinking less fluid before bed and avoiding caffeine can help manage symptoms.¹⁰
2. Medications: Doctors may prescribe medicines like alpha-blockers to relax prostate muscles or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors to shrink the prostate.¹⁰
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Treatments like UroLift, which lifts prostate tissue away from the urethra, and Rezūm, which uses steam to remove extra tissue, can help reduce symptoms.¹⁰
4. Surgical Options: For severe cases, more invasive surgeries, such as TURP (removing prostate tissue through the urethra) or open prostatectomy, may be recommended to improve urine flow.¹⁰

The best treatment depends on the size of the prostate and the person's overall health.  

12. Does prostate enlargement affect potency?

Yes, an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) can affect sexual function, particularly by contributing to erectile dysfunction (ED). While BPH itself doesn’t directly cause ED, the urinary symptoms associated with the condition—such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and the stress these symptoms cause—may lead to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. Additionally, certain treatments for BPH, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), may have side effects, including ED and retrograde ejaculation. While BPH and ED are separate conditions, they can both influence male sexual health.¹¹ 

13. Can prostate enlargement be prevented?

Is it possible to prevent benign prostatic hyperplasia? Currently, scientists have not discovered a method to prevent benign prostatic hyperplasia. But staying active can help lower your risk. If you have risk factors for BPH, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about any urinary problems you might be having and how often you should get a prostate check-up.¹²

14. What natural supplements for prostate?

If you're looking for a natural supplement to support prostate health, Prost-X by VitalAbc could be a beneficial option. This vegan product is formulated with milk thistle (Silybum marianum) and Prunus domestica extract, ingredients traditionally used to support prostate health and urinary function. The product is thoroughly laboratory-tested to ensure it meets high-quality standards and is free from harmful substances, added sugars, fillers, anti-caking agents, and artificial additives. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Conclusion

BPH is a common and non-cancerous condition that can be managed effectively. It’s important for men to recognize the symptoms and see a urologist regularly for check-ups. If you have any concerns about your prostate health, it’s a good idea to talk to a specialist. Taking care of your prostate is an investment in your overall well-being and quality of life. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Do you have additional questions? Share them in the comments, and we will do our best to answer them!

References

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2.NIH. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Prostate [Internet]. Nih.gov. 2023 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31082031/

3.NIH. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is when the prostate gland grows bigger, but it’s not caused by cancer. This usually happens in older men - Google Search [Internet]. Google.com. 2024 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.google.com/search?q=Benign+Prostatic+Hyperplasia+(BPH)+is+when+the+prostate+gland+grows+bigger%2C+but+it%27s+not+caused+by+cancer.+This+usually+happens+in+older+men&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN1120IN1120&oq=Benign+Prostatic+Hyperplasia+(BPH)+is+when+the+prostate+gland+grows+bigger%2C+but+it%27s+not+caused+by+cancer.+This+usually+happens+in+older+men&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOdIBBzEzOWowajeoAgCwAgA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

4.Pennmedicine. Enlarged Prostate (BPH) - Symptoms and Causes | Penn Medicine [Internet]. Pennmedicine.org. 2021 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/enlarged-prostate

5.And D. Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) [Internet]. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. NIDDK - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2024 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/enlarged-prostate-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#:~:text=BPH%20can%20be%20treated%20with,discussing%20treatment%20options%20with%20you.

6.Michaud JE, Billups KL, Partin AW. Testosterone and prostate cancer: an evidence-based review of pathogenesis and oncologic risk. Therapeutic Advances in Urology [Internet]. 2015 Aug 6 [cited 2024 Dec 21];7(6):378–87. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4647137/

7.Pietrangelo A. BPH vs. Prostate Cancer: What’s the Difference? [Internet]. WebMD. 2022 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/prostate-cancer/bph-vs-prostate-cancer

8.Tejeda D. How Often Should Men Have a Prostate Screening? - Center for Adult Medicine and Preventive Care Passaic, NJ [Internet]. Center for Adult Medicine and Preventive Care Passaic, NJ. 2019 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://campmedicine.org/blog/how-often-should-men-have-a-prostate-screening/

9.mayoclinic. BPH: Does diet play a role? [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2024 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/expert-answers/enlarged-prostate-and-diet/faq-20322773

10.NHS website. Treatment [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2017 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-enlargement/treatment/

11.Mint. How An Enlarged Prostate Can Affect Your Sex Life: Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy: Vascular and Interventional Radiologists [Internet]. Mintstl.com. 2024 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.mintstl.com/blog/how-an-enlarged-prostate-can-affect-your-sex-life

12.https://www.facebook.com/WebMD. Can I Prevent BPH? [Internet]. WebMD. 2016 [cited 2024 Dec 21]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/men/prostate-enlargement-bph/can-i-prevent-bph