What is the prostate gland?

The prostate gland is a part of the male exocrine system that supports healthy functioning of the sperm cells. The prostate surrounds the urethra at its starting point below the bladder and secretes a fluid that makes up 20 to 30 percent of seminal fluid.

Muscles of the prostate aid in the ejaculatory process. The prostate gland is normally the size of a large walnut but can triple in size when diseased, interfering with urination and sexual functioning. Benign prostatic hypertrophy, which causes prostate growth, is common in men over 50 years of age. Doctors prescribe medication or perform surgery to treat BPH.