One of the most important things to know about the prostate gland? It boosts your sexual capability.
Male sexual functions involve interactions of numerous organs, including the prostate gland. And while the prostate is important for reproduction, keeping it healthy can lead to overall wellness benefits, especially later in life.
The prostate gland is essential for healthy semen.
The prostate is a petite, muscular gland about the size of a walnut. It’s located between the bladder and rectum in men. While the prostate is an internal organ, the back of the gland can be felt through the lining of the rectum about a finger’s length from the external opening of the anus.
The main purpose of the prostate gland is to secrete an alkaline fluid to nourish and protect sperm.
When not cared for properly, this gland can harbor stale semen, which can lead to all types of health concerns.
Top 5 Prostate Health Concerns
1. Prostate Cancer
2. Prostate Enlargement, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, BPH
3. Prostatitis
4. Urinary Symptoms
5. Infertility
Prostate Cancer
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the U.S.
While the vast majority of men with prostate cancer are over the age of 50, men in their 20s and 30s have also contracted it, with studies showing that 1 in 3 men will develop cancer in their lifetime.
Prostate Enlargement, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, BPH
An enlarged prostate gland can block the flow of urine through the urethra. Research states, hypertrophy refers to an increase in the size of the cell, while hyperplasia refers to an increase in the number of cells or fibers.
Studies show that prostate enlargement can also cause erectile dysfunction (ED) or problems with ejaculation.
Physician’s state that this can also reduce a person’s sex drive and decrease sexual satisfaction.
Prostatitis
If your prostate gland becomes swollen, tender, and inflamed, you may have a condition called prostatitis. This includes acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS). It can cause infection, inflammation, and pain in the prostate gland.
Medical research shows adult men of any age can get prostatitis. Half of all men will have symptoms of prostatitis at some point in their lives.
Urinary Symptoms
There are two types of prostatitis which are linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs). The symptoms can include painful and frequent urination or trouble urinating.
If a prostate becomes enlarged or swollen, it can put pressure on the bladder and urethra, causing issues with urination.
Infertility
The prostate is the target of a number of diseases that can affect male fertility.
Overall, research states that an unhealthy prostate can affect sperm functioning and fertility.
How to Improve Your Prostate Health Naturally
Experiencing any type of prostate problems should be discussed directly with your physician.
While there are procedures and medication that may be considered for treating the health concerns mentioned above, it’s always good practice to learn options on how to keep your prostate in tip-top condition.
Natural Options for Prostate Health Checklist
_____ Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand reports that good habits can prevent and lower risk factors for prostate diseases and other prostate concerns.
_____ Lose Weight
It’s reported that if you’re overweight, losing weight is one of the most important natural changes a person can make in improving prostate health.
_____ Drink Tea
Green tea and hibiscus tea are among the top drinks for prostate health because both possess potent antioxidants.
_____ Reduce Caffeine
Caffeine can irritate the prostate gland and bladder.
_____ Consider Saw Palmetto Supplements
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services cites many studies that have shown saw palmetto is beneficial for the urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland. According to Harvard Health, the main concern is that some herbs and supplements can interact with each other or with prescribed medications, so it’s best to check with your physician first.
_____ Eat Prostate-Friendly Foods
Leafy, green vegetables contain vitamins and antioxidants that help keep prostates healthy. The Prostate Cancer Foundation reports some of the best foods for prostate health include oily fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, and foods high in healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olives. Foods that help fight prostate cancer include Asian mushrooms, tomatoes, pomegranate juice, and walnuts.
_____ Reduce Stress
Did you know that men unknowingly tighten their pelvic muscles when stressed? This chronic tightening can create pelvic floor muscle problems and can be one of the causes of chronic prostatitis. Stress can also affect men with BPH. Stress can worsen symptoms such as urinary urgency and urinary frequency and pain.
Consider therapy, meditation, yoga, exercise, tai chi, deep breathing, and ways to release tension and take care of your emotional health.
_____ Enjoy Sunshine
John Hopkins Medicine reports too little sun exposure can increase the risk of getting prostate cancer. We get a lot of valuable vitamin D from the sun and this is a great way to reduce your risk of prostate cancer.
Masturbation & Prostate Massage Can Also Help Prostate Health
Studies have shown that masturbating may protect men against prostate cancer. Sperling Prostate Center is just one organization reporting prostate massage can be pleasurable and can reduce risk of prostate cancer. The Boston University School of Public Health and Harvard Medical School studies report that men who ejaculate 21 times or more during a one month period were less likely to develop prostate cancer.
Practicing regular prostate massage can have multiple benefits, including:
- Enhanced sexual enjoyment and improved erections
- Removal of the accumulation of prostatic fluid in the prostate gland
- Support for a healthy prostate, enabling it to function properly
- Relieve pain and discomfort of an inflamed prostate
- Help prevent prostate cancer
A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that tri-weekly prostate massage combined with antibiotic therapy resulted in a 60% decrease and significant improvement in chronic prostatitis symptom severity.
Consider Prostate Massagers
Prostate massagers are helpful because they are appropriately designed to stimulate the prostate gland directly. Many brands are developed by physicians.
Prostate massagers can be rocked to apply pressure to the gland. Another method is squeezing and releasing PC muscles in your pelvic floor, which will tilt a prostate massager and allow it to automatically massage the prostate gland.
Many prostate massagers have vibration as a stimulation option. I suggest experimenting with a few different types of massagers to find out what shape and stimulation works best for you personally.
Regular Prostate Cancer Screenings
As we age, our ears and noses get bigger. The prostate gland also continues to grow. Many doctors perform a digital rectal exam on male patients to check the size and condition of the prostate gland. Most often, they are checking for the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
In addition to regular check-ups, if you are considered high risk, it’s recommended to get screened for prostate cancer starting at age 40. Men who are considered normal risk are encouraged to start screenings at age 55.
Do you have a healthy prostate regime? Have you tried prostate massage? Please send me your questions and comments. I’m always here to help you.
