Anatomy and function of the prostate

The prostate is a gland found only in men, located between the bladder and the penis.

The human prostate is about the size of a walnut, but it can grow with age, and problems with prostate enlargement are common in middle-aged and older men.

The main function of the prostate is to produce prostatic fluid, which is an important component of semen. Prostatic fluid makes up about 20-30 percent of semen and contains a variety of substances such as enzymes, sugars, minerals and proteins.

Semen is the fluid that leaves the body during ejaculation of the penis.

Semen contains sperm, which are needed to fertilise the female egg, and prostatic fluid, which provides important nourishment and protection for the sperm.

Enzymes and sugars in the prostatic fluid help improve sperm movement and make it easier for sperm to enter the female egg. Prostatic fluid also provides an overall acid-base balance in the semen, which is important for sperm viability.

Proteins in the prostatic fluid help protect sperm from damage by surrounding tissues and the immune system.

In addition, minerals in the prostatic fluid, such as zinc, play an important role in maintaining sperm health. A lack of zinc can reduce sperm motility and sperm count, and affect the quantity and quality of semen.

Anatomically, the prostate is made up of three parts.

The base is attached to the bladder, while the bottom is located away from the penis. The middle part of the prostate is closely connected to the first and second parts and surrounds the urethra, through which semen and urine leave the body.

The prostate is divided into two lobes, separated by the middle part. These lobes contain the glandular cells that produce the prostatic fluid.

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