The prostate is a muscular walnut-sized gland that belongs to the male reproductive system. It is located in the true pelvis behind the pubic symphysis, between the base of the penis and rectum.

The prostate is tightly attached to the neck of the bladder and surrounds the proximal part of the urethra. The urethra arises from the bladder and passes through the prostate. The urethral walls have openings for the glandular ducts of the prostate.

The left and right ejaculatory ducts also go through the prostate, more on its posterior part.

The prostate has a dense consistency. It is about 1.6 inches (4 cm) wide, 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, and 0.8 inches (2 cm) thick. It weighs about 0.7 - 1.4 ounces (20 - 40 grams).

The size of the prostate depends on the age - it is small in children, fully developed by age 17, and can be enlarged in older individuals.

The prostate has a base and an apex. The base of the prostate is directed upwards, attached to the neck of the bladder. The apex is pointed forward and downwards, attached to the urogenital diaphragm.

The gland also has several surfaces - anterior, posterior, and two lateral (one on each side). The posterior surface of the prostate adheres to the rectum.

The prostate consists of smooth muscle, glandular epithelium, and connective tissue. It also contains some endocrine cells (hormone producing cells). The external surface is covered by a connective tissue capsule.

The prostate has several functions:

Production of a milky fluid known as seminal fluid (alkaline, high in protein content), which nourishes, protects and transports sperm; it mixes with sperm and increase the survival and activity of spermatozoa;
Functioning as an independent sphincter to limit the flow of urine during ejaculation;
Responsible for production of some hormones (e.g., dihydrotestosterone or DHT, one of the male hormones, it is created by converting testosterone to DHT with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which is produced in the prostate).

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Prostate