Enlarged Image for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The prostate gland is located just below the bladder and surrounds the top portion of the tube that drains urine from the bladder (urethra). The gland's primary function is to produce most of the fluids in semen, the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

The prostate gland grows larger as men age. As it enlarges, prostate tissues often compress the urethra and partially block urine flow. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for this condition.

Prostate enlargement affects about half of men in their 60s and up to 90 percent of men in their 70s and 80s. The presence or absence of prostate gland enlargement is not related to the development of prostate cancer.

There are a variety of treatment options for this condition.