What is an enlarged prostate, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
You’re not alone. BPH affects millions of men over 50.
What is the Prostate? Before we get to BPH, let’s talk about the prostate gland. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. Its main function is to produce semen. A normal prostate is about the same size and shape of a walnut, and weighs about an ounce. As pictured in the diagram, it is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate surrounds a tube called the urethra, which carries urine from the bladder out through the penis. A normal prostate does not interfere with the flow of fluid through the urethra.
What is an enlarged prostate, or BPH?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is commonly known as an enlarged prostate. It refers to a noncancerous (benign) growth process (hyperplasia) within the prostate. The normal prostate grows quickly during puberty, and then maintains its size for years. However, in virtually all men, the prostate begins to grow again after the age of 40. BPH is very common in older men. It is found in 60% of men over 60, and in up to 80% of men over the age of 80. Although BPH may never cause a problem, some men will eventually experience symptoms of BPH. These symptoms range from merely bothersome to severe, and may interfere with normal daily activities.
What are the symptoms of BPH?
An enlarged prostate presses on the urethra and can obstruct the flow of urine. This obstruction can cause:
- Weak urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Trouble starting and stopping your urine stream (hesitation)
- Inability to completely empty your bladder
- Pushing or straining to urinate
- Sudden urge to urinate (urgency)
- Pain or burning during urination
