Life Without a Prostate: What Men Need to Know
By Dr. David Samadi
For a gland men usually avoid talking about, the prostate plays a pivotal role in men’s health. This small walnut-sized gland is nestled deep within the pelvic area, sitting just below the bladder, in front of the rectum. The gland surrounds the uretha, a tube necessary for carrying urine and semen out of the body. Despite its small size, the prostate is a key player in male reproductive and urinary functions.
Primarily, the prostate produces a milky fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. This fluid, rich in enzymes, zinc, and citric acid, makes up about one-third of semen, ensuring sperm viability and motility during reproduction. Additionally, the prostate controls urinary flow by regulating the release of urine from the bladder.
Common Prostate Problems
As men age, the prostate becomes vulnerable to several conditions. Here’s an overview of the most common issues:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH, or an enlarged prostate, is a noncancerous condition that affects about half of men by age 60 and nearly 90% by age 85. An enlarged prostate can compress the urethra, leading to frequent urination, urgency, nighttime trips to the bathroom, and, in some cases, erectile dysfunction.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis, meaning inflammation or infection of the prostate, is another prevalent issue, particularly in men under 50. This condition can cause pain, difficulty urinating, and general discomfort.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men after skin cancer. Approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed in their lifetime, with most cases occurring in men over 65. In order to detect prostate cancer at an early, more treatable stage, yearly screening with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, starting around age 40, is crucial.
Prostate Health by the Numbers
Men in their 40s may experience subtle prostate changes, but symptoms or risks significantly increase by their mid-50s and beyond. Regular checkups and PSA testing can help identify issues early, offering better treatment outcomes.
Treatments for Prostate Conditions
Fortunately, advancements in medical care provide effective treatments for most prostate conditions:
BPH
Lifestyle adjustments, such as fully emptying the bladder and reducing fluid intake before bedtime, can help manage mild symptoms. Medications or surgical interventions are available for more severe cases.
Prostatitis
Treatment depends on the cause, ranging from antibiotics for bacterial infections to stress management and physical therapy for non-infectious cases.
Prostate Cancer
Depending on the stage of the disease will determine which option is recommended. Early-stage prostate cancer may only require active surveillance, while more advanced cases might involve surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy.
Can A Man Live Without a Prostate?
The answer is yes—many men live healthy, fulfilling lives after prostate removal (prostatectomy), often performed to treat prostate cancer. However, removing the prostate comes with potential side effects, including:
Urinary Incontinence
Some men experience leakage or difficulty controlling their bladder. This issue often improves over time with pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, medications, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
ED is another common side effect, as the prostate and surrounding tissues are integral to sexual function. While recovery varies, most men regain the ability to engage in satisfying sexual activity. Treatments, including medications, devices, or therapy, can help manage persistent ED.
The Bottom Line
Losing a prostate does not mean losing quality of life. With proper treatment and support, men can overcome challenges like incontinence and ED. Regular communication with a urologist is essential for addressing these issues and exploring solutions tailored to individual needs.
Take charge of your prostate health with routine screenings, proactive care, and informed decisions—your well-being depends on it.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.