Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

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The prostate gland, as it grows due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can begin to compress the urethra at the base of the bladder, impeding urine flow and causing urine retention in the bladder. Urine retention can cause abnormally frequent urination, both day and night. Men who have BPH may also feel a perpetual, urgent need to urinate and may also have difficulty starting urination.

If left untreated over time, BPH can completely block/squeeze the urethra, which can lead to other urinary tract problems that can damage the kidneys.

Normal versus enlarged prostate gland

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BPH becomes more common as men age, ranging from about 40 percent of men in their 50s to about 90 percent of men in their 80s. Mayo Clinic physicians have a variety of diagnostic procedures and tests at their disposal for determining whether a patient has BPH or a different prostate condition.

Minimally-invasive procedures developed during the last decade offer expanded options for men who have BPH. Mayo Clinic surgeons pioneered the development of laser photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) and have stayed at the forefront of laser therapy by offering holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) as a treatment option. HoLEP is currently available only at selected specialty centers in the United States.

Read more about prostate gland enlargement (BPH) at MayoClinic.com.