5 Surprising Facts Every Man (and Woman) Should Know About the Prostate—From a Urologist

Unlock the secrets of prostate health with expert tips, myth-busting truths, and science-backed advice

Is Your Prostate Protecting or Sabotaging Your Health?

If you’re a man (or love someone who is), chances are you either worry about your prostate—or you will. Prostate issues are one of the top urologic concerns I see in my clinic, whether it's difficulty urinating, cancer scares, or questions about sexual health. Yet, so much of what you’ve heard about the prostate is half-understood, outdated, or simply wrong.

Today, I’m sharing five surprising, science-backed insights about the prostate—the walnut-sized gland that quietly affects everything from how you urinate to your fertility and cancer risk. No matter your age, understanding your prostate is key to feeling confident, empowered, and proactive about your health.

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Why Prostate Health Deserves Your Attention

Did you know prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide? Or that something as simple as how often you ejaculate could influence your future risk? Yet, despite its influence on health and quality of life, many men ignore their prostates—sometimes until it’s too late.

In this article, I’ll break down the facts every man should know (and women who care about them)—debunking myths, sharing actionable tips, and giving you the tools to take charge of your wellness.

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Fact #1: The Prostate’s Main Job Isn’t What You Think

It’s not just about urine flow. The prostate’s primary function is to produce a special fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. About 30% of your semen is actually created by the prostate—a milky, enzyme-rich liquid that:

• Activates and nourishes sperm

• Helps sperm survive the acidic environment of the female reproductive tract

• Contains vital minerals and nutrients (like zinc, calcium, and potassium)

Takeaway: Your prostate is crucial for fertility and sexual health, not just a source of male troubles.

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Fact #2: Prostate Massage—Myth, Medicine, or Pleasure?

Once considered a common remedy for prostatitis (prostate inflammation), prostate massage has a storied medical history. Early doctors believed it could:

• Release trapped fluids (“expression” of secretions)

• Ease pelvic floor tension

• Help antibiotics penetrate by breaking down bacterial barriers

What does science say? Modern research hasn’t found solid proof that prostate massage cures or even relieves prostatitis—and it’s not a mainstream treatment today. However, some people do enjoy prostate massage for sexual pleasure, and that’s perfectly safe when done gently!

Pro tip: Curious about safe prostate massage? Check out this video

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Fact #3: Ejaculation Frequency May Lower Prostate Cancer Risk

Here’s a fact that surprises many: Ejaculating at least 21 times per month could reduce your prostate cancer risk. A large European Urology study found that men who ejaculated more frequently had lower chances of developing prostate cancer.

Possible explanations include:

• Flushing out carcinogens: Frequent emptying may prevent buildup of potentially cancer-promoting substances.

• Reducing stress: Sexual activity lowers psychological stress, which is linked to cancer risk.

• Supporting healthy cell function: Regular ejaculation benefits the “microbiome” and mineral balance in your prostate.

Keep in mind, this is correlation, not causation—but it certainly doesn’t hurt to maintain a healthy sex life!

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Fact #4: Prostate Size Changes—And Can Cause Trouble

Your prostate is tiny when you’re born—then grows rapidly during puberty, reaching adult size around age 25. But for many men, it doesn’t stop there.

Over time, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—noncancerous enlargement—can:

• Block urine flow

• Cause symptoms like straining, weak stream, urgency, frequency, or even leakage

Key stat: By age 60-69, nearly 70% of men have some degree of BPH; over age 70, it climbs to 80%! But not all enlarged prostates cause symptoms or need treatment.

If you’re struggling with urinary changes, you’re not alone. Effective treatments exist—from medications to minimally invasive procedures. Don’t suffer in silence.

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Fact #5: Prostate Cancer Screening Is Easier Than You Think

Worried about screening? Don’t let fear keep you from protecting your health.

Screening involves two simple steps:

1. Digital rectal exam (DRE): A quick finger exam via the rectum to check for irregularities. Data shows it’s tolerable for most men—with post-exam surveys revealing the vast majority would do it again.

2. PSA blood test: Measures prostate-specific antigen in your blood. Not perfect, but simple, affordable, and helpful.

Pro tip: If you’re African American or have a family history of prostate or related cancers, you may need to start screening earlier.

Screening saves lives. Don’t let a few seconds of discomfort stand between you and your health.

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Taking Control of Your Prostate Health

Whether you’re facing urinary symptoms, concerned about cancer, or simply want to optimize your sexual health, understanding your prostate is key. I’ve seen too many men suffer in silence because they were embarrassed to ask questions—a trend I want to change by sharing evidence-based, judgment-free advice.

What’s the biggest prostate myth or question on your mind? Leave a comment below—your curiosity could help others!

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