What does this small gland actually do? It is common for men to look up “what is the function of the prostate” after hearing a friend or family member mention prostate problems, prostate cancer, or an enlarged prostate. Many people do not think about the prostate gland at a younger age because symptoms rarely appear early in life.

The prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut that sits just below the bladder. It surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Even though it is not often discussed, the prostate contributes to several important functions in the urinary and reproductive systems. It produces prostatic fluid, helps semen travel through the ejaculatory ducts, and influences urine flow. Changes in prostate tissue or the growth of excess tissue can lead to urinary frequency, a weak urine stream, and other shifts in prostate health.

Understanding how the prostate works gives men a clearer picture of early symptoms and helps them have informed conversations with medical professionals. This guide explains what the prostate does, how it changes with age, and everyday habits that may support urinary wellness. Personal concerns should always be discussed with a healthcare professional who can give individualized guidance.

The prostate gland sits deep in the pelvis and plays several roles that influence both reproductive systems and urinary function. Its location explains why prostate problems may affect sexual function or urine flow. Knowing where the prostate sits helps many men understand why symptoms like urinary frequency or changes in the urine stream can appear with age.

In a younger age, the prostate is about the size of a walnut. It contains glandular tissue mixed with connective tissue, giving it a firm but flexible feel. As men grow older, the entire prostate gland may slowly increase in size. The enlargement varies in degree from person to person. Some men never notice symptoms, while others may feel pressure or slower urine flow. Even when the prostate reaches the size of a small tangerine, this change alone does not indicate a medical problem.

The prostate is a small gland that sits just below the bladder and directly in front of the rectum. It wraps around the urethra, which carries urine out of the body. Because the prostate surrounds the urethra, changes in the central zone, peripheral zone, transition zone, or lateral lobes can influence urinary function. When these areas press more tightly around the urethra, some men notice changes in their urine stream.

The prostate sits at a point where both urine and semen pass. It connects to the ejaculatory ducts and the seminal vesicles, which carry sperm cells and seminal fluid during ejaculation. Despite the complexity of the anatomy, the idea is simple. The prostate contributes to important functions by producing fluid and helping direct the movement of semen through the urethra.

The prostate works by producing fluid for semen, helping with ejaculation, and supporting healthy urine flow. These functions rely on the structure of prostate tissue and how the gland interacts with nearby organs.

The prostate produces prostatic fluid, which becomes part of semen. This fluid plays several roles:

• It protects and nourishes sperm cells.

• It helps sperm travel more easily by making semen thinner.

• It supplies enzymes, proteins, minerals, and citric acid that assist sperm in their movement.

The prostate contributes to ejaculation through rhythmic muscle contractions. During orgasm, the muscles tighten and:

• Push prostate fluid into the urethra.

• Help move semen out of the penis through the ejaculatory ducts.

The prostate sits between the bladder and the urethra, similar to a natural valve. When things work smoothly:

• Muscles help keep urine in the bladder until it is time to release it.

• Those muscles relax to let urine pass.

The process is automatic. Men do not consciously control these movements, although prostate enlargement can still affect urine flow.

Hormones shape the way the prostate functions. Testosterone and its biologically active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), support normal hormone metabolism and general prostate health. These hormones influence the prostate's total mass throughout adulthood. Shifts over time are common and are not necessarily signs of cancer or medical conditions.

Prostate health shifts gradually as men grow older. Hormone changes, lifestyle factors, and natural aging all play a role. Many of these developments are normal and occur slowly over time.

It is common for the prostate to grow slowly with age. This increase may be small or noticeable, but the amount of change varies. Some men never experience symptoms even if the prostate grows. Others may feel small changes in urinary function that show up over the years.

A larger prostate may press against the urethra. This can create a weaker urine stream or a feeling that the bladder does not empty well. These symptoms can appear with benign prostatic hyperplasia, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia BPH. They can also appear in situations unrelated to prostate cancer. Any new symptoms should be shared with a clinician who can offer guidance.

Some urinary changes appear slowly and feel mild, such as slight pressure or slower flow. Sudden symptoms are different. Severe pelvic pain, inability to urinate, or visible blood in the urine should be discussed with a healthcare professional. These symptoms can come from several causes, such as chronic pelvic pain syndrome, chronic bacterial prostatitis, or other prostate conditions.

Many men hear terms like prostate cancer, prostatitis, or benign prostatic hyperplasia long before they understand what each one means. Knowing the basics helps reduce fear and encourages better conversations with medical professionals.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous growth of excess tissue in the prostate. The enlargement of the gland can press on the urethra, which affects urine flow. A clinician can explain options or next steps if symptoms become challenging.

Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate. It can involve pelvic discomfort, pressure, or trouble urinating. In some cases, it may relate to infection. Persistent or recurring discomfort should be evaluated. Conditions like chronic bacterial prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome can look similar, so guidance from a clinician helps clarify the cause.

Prostate cancer involves abnormal cell growth in prostate tissue. It is a common cancer in men, but many urinary symptoms come from causes that are not cancer. Only medical professionals can determine the source of symptoms. They may use a digital rectal exam, a blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, or other prostate cancer screening methods. Some men with prostate cancer choose active surveillance depending on their risk factors and medical history.

Daily habits do not treat cancer or medical conditions, but they can support the body and may help men feel better overall. Small, consistent routines tend to matter more than major changes made all at once.

• Eat fruits and vegetables often.

• Add healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, and olive oil.

• Build more plant-forward meals into your week.

• Drink enough water so urine stays light yellow.

• Give yourself space between heavy or salty meals when possible.

• Move your body regularly through walking or light exercise.

• Keep a healthy weight to support urinary function.

• Practice simple stress-relief habits like breathing exercises or short breaks.

• Aim for steady, consistent sleep.

• Some people add prostate and kidney support supplements to their routine.

• Look for clear labels and brands that use third-party testing.

• Review the ingredient list to see if it fits your goals.

• Talk with a healthcare professional if you take medications or have medical conditions.

Changes in urine flow, prostate symptoms, or PSA levels are good reasons to speak with a clinician. These conversations can help identify any patterns or risk factors and provide reassurance.

Many men find it helpful to bring up new or recurring changes, such as:

• Urinating more often than usual.

• Feeling like the bladder does not empty fully.

• New pelvic pressure or discomfort.

Keeping notes about when symptoms appear can help make the discussion clearer.

Asking questions can make appointments feel easier. Examples include:

• “Can you explain what my prostate does and how it looks on exam?”

• “Are my urinary changes something we should watch?”

• “Are there lifestyle habits or over-the-counter products I should ask about for general prostate wellness?”

These questions help build trust and support better decision-making.

Small steps taken consistently can support long-term wellness. Many men find that staying aware of their habits helps them feel more in control.

• Pay attention to urinary habits and write down any new symptoms.

• Keep simple routines for movement, hydration, food choices, and sleep.

• Visit the Alerna Kidney Health website to explore kidney health supplements, uric acid support supplements, and prostate and kidney support supplements that may fit into a wellness plan.

• Use supplements alongside professional advice, not in place of it.

The prostate is a small gland with an important function in semen production, ejaculation, and healthy urine flow. Its size and role often shift with age, which is common and not always a cause for concern. Simple habits and regular checkups can help men feel more prepared and knowledgeable about their prostate health. Paying attention to daily wellness choices today can support long-term comfort and confidence in how the body works.

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking other medications. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

1. Loeb, S., Kettermann, A., Carter, H. B., Ferrucci, L., Metter, E. J., & Walsh, P. C. (2009). Prostate volume changes over time: Results from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. The Journal of Urology, 182(4), 1458–1462. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2009.06.047

2. Ng, M., Leslie, S. W., & Baradhi, K. M. (2024). Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558920/

3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2014, July). Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate. National Institutes of Health. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostatitis-inflammation-prostate

4. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. (2022). In brief: How does the prostate work? IQWiG. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279291/