The prostate is a gland found only in men. Understanding the location and function of the prostate is key to explaining symptoms of prostate cancer and other non-cancerous conditions that can effect the prostate function. The prostate is located just beneath the bladder, between the penis and rectum, (see diagram below.) The urethra tube runs out of the bladder, through the center of the prostate, then to the penis, providing the path for urination. In aid of reproduction, prostate muscles help to expel sperm from the body while secreting seminal fluids that protect and nourish the sperm. Incontinence or sexual dysfunction can sometimes be caused by prostate cancer and even treatment for prostate cancer.

The prostate cells produce an enzyme named Prostate Specific Antigen or PSA, found in a man's blood. PSA is produced exclusively by prostate cells. Elevated levels of the PSA enzyme can be helpful in diagnosing issues with the prostate, like cancer or infection. These elevated levels of PSA can be detected with a simple blood test. For more information, visit our page on PSA.