The function of the prostate
Author: Dr. Lee
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Time: 2010/12/4 16:55:20
The main physiological functions of the prostate gland:
1) To secrete prostatic fluid
The prostate gland is the biggest accessory genital gland of male, and one of human exocrine glands. It can secrete prostatic fluid, which is the an important component of seminal fluid and plays an important role to maintain the normal function of sperm. The prostatic fluid helps neutralize the acidity of the vaginal tract, prolonging the lifespan of sperm. The reproduction of bacteria in the reproductive tract will produce some hazardous substance to damage the sperms. The bacterial reproduction in the tractus genitalis consumes large quantity of nutriment, which damages sperm's living environment and the sperms will die due to lack of nutrition. The bacteria excrete large quantity of acid substances in the tractus genitalis, which will reduce the PH value of male tractus genitalis, and cause acid intoxication to the sperms. Therefore, the bacterial infection of the prostate may lead to male infertility.
2) To produce nutrition
The prostate gland is rich in 5α-reductase, which can convert testosterone into DHT which is of more physiological activity. DHT plays an important role in the pathogenesis process of the benign prostatic hyperplasia. By blocking the 5α-reductase, the production of DHT would be reduced, thus shrinking the proliferative prostatic tissue.
3) To control urination
The prostate gland surrounds the urethra and is close to the neck of the bladder, forming the wall of the proximal urethra. The circular and smooth muscle fibers surround the prostatic urethra, constituting the urethral sphincter. When the urge to urinate occurs, the contraction of detrusor and the relaxation of the internal sphincter together make smooth urination.
4) To transport semen
A complex system of valves in the prostate, sends the semen into the urethra during ejaculatory process and a prostate muscle called the sphincter seals the bladder, thereby preventing urine entry into the urethra. The inflammation stimulates the prostate will lead to prostatic edema and hypertrophy, dysuria, inability to ejaculate, impotence and premature ejaculation.
