Some of us don’t even know where our prostate is located, much less what this little, walnut-shaped organ does. In fact, many of us only get to know our prostate intimately when something goes wrong.

The prostate explained
Here is what you need to know: Your prostate, which produces the semen that carries sperm, resides just next to your bladder, on the other side of your rectum, amidst bundles of nerves and muscles that control urination and erections.

During an orgasm, the prostate contracts to push the semen through the urethra and out of the penis. The urethra, which runs right through the prostate, also carries urine from the bladder.

Specific symptoms to watch for
That's why so many of the early symptoms of prostate cancer--as well as the symptoms of prostate infections and other prostate problems--involve these most intimate of functions.

If you are experiencing any of the following problems, you shouldn't hesitate to visit your doctor:

• Frequent urination, particularly at night
• Difficulty starting to urinate
• Being unable to urinate
• A weak or interrupted flow of urine; urinary dribbling
• Pain or burning upon urination
• Painful ejaculation
• Blood in your urine or semen
• Frequent pain or stiffness in your back, hips or upper thighs

See also

• Prosate cancer - introduction
• Prostate cancer - causes and risk factors
• Prostate cancer - detection
• Prostate cancer - diagnosis
• Prostate cancer - treatment options
• Prostate cancer - coping with the aftermath
• Prostate cancer - finding support