Definition: The prostate is a small gland present in males. It is the size of a walnut and donut shaped, which allows the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen, to pass through it. When enlarged the prostate can obstruct the urethra, making urination difficult.
The prostate produces a fluid that makes up approximately 30% of the volume of semen. It also plays a role in ejaculation, insuring that the semen travels out of the body through the urethra.
The nerve bundles that control erectile function run along the prostate, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction after surgery is performed on the gland.
Pronunciation: prah-state
Common Misspellings: prostrate, prostrate gland,
Examples:
The doctor performed a prostate exam to determine if the prostate gland was enlarged.
