Prostate - Introduction, Structure, Functions and Disorder

Introduction of the Prostate Gland
The prostate is a gland of the males and is considered under the reproductive system. The , medically, is a compound tubuloalveolar exocrine gland that is categorized under the male mammalian reproductive system. The shape of the prostate gland is like a walnut and it measures about 1.2 inches across. The urethra (a tube that carries semen and urine) runs through the prostate gland. It is therefore, any alteration in anatomy of the prostate gland directly affects to the urination or the frequency of the maturation.
Structure of the Prostate Gland
For the sake of studying it, the gland has been divided in four zones; peripheral zone, central zone, transition zone and anterior fibro-muscular zone. However, for gross anatomy, the gland has been divided into four lobes namely; anterior lobe (or isthmus), posterior lobe, lateral lobes and median lobe (also known as middle lobe).
Functions of the Prostate Gland
The main function of the prostate gland is storing and secreting a clear but slightly alkaline (pH about 7.29) fluid that is forms 10-30% of the volume of the seminal fluid, which combines spermatozoa and makes the semen. The rest of the seminal fluid is manufactured by two seminal vesicles. The seminal fluid has alkalinity and probably this feature is gifted to neutralize the acidic environment that is present in the vaginal tract. This protects and prolongs the lifespan of the sperm into the vaginal tract making all fair chances to fertilization. The prostate gland also comprises some smooth muscles, which help to expel the semen during ejaculation once the orgasm has reached.
Prostate Gland’s Secretions
The secretions secreted by the prostate glands vary from person to person but they are normally composed of simple sugars and they are often basic in nature. In a normal human prostatic secretion, the protein content is generally lesser than 1%. However, it includes proteolytic enzymes, acid phosphatase and a special prostate-specific antigen and medical science agrees that prostate secretions also contain some important elements such as zinc.
Prostate gland requires male hormones (known as androgens) to perform its tasks properly. Androgens are responsible for masculine characters offering manhood. The main male hormone is testosterone that is produced mainly by the testicles. Nevertheless, some of the male hormones, however in small quantities, are produced by adrenal glands too. It is dihydrotestosterone that regulates the prostate glands and its secretion.
Disorder of the Prostate Glands
There are many health ailments that involve the prostate gland one or the other way. Prostatitis is the condition wherein the gland becomes inflamed due to some reason. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is another known condition wherein it becomes so large that it is very difficult to pass the urine and this condition affects old persons. Prostate cancer is malignant condition that generally develops in older men. The examination of the prostate gland can be done by rectal examination.
Role in sex
Many health experts believe that the gland can be considered as ‘G Spot’ for the men as many men are able to achieve orgasm just because they get stimulation by the gland. It is therefore, sexual play also involves playing with prostate gland by palpating it.