Advanced Urology Associates Prostate Health & Procedures
Prevention is key to good prostate health. The prostate is a muscular, walnut-sized gland that surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that transports urine and sperm out of the body. As part of the male reproductive system, the prostate secretes seminal fluid, a milky substance that combines with sperm produced in the testicles to form semen.
About The Prostate & Conditions
The prostate goes through two main periods of growth during a man’s life. The first occurs early in puberty, when it doubles in size. Then, at around age 25, the gland begins to grow again. It is very common for the prostate gland to become enlarged as a man ages and there are many signs or symptoms when this happens. Common prostate conditions include enlargement of the prostate, which is often called BPH, and in severe cases, prostate cancer. Both of these conditions are very treatable if found early.
It is extremely important for men to regularly have their prostate checked. After age 40, men should have it checked once a year with a trusted urologist. The Advanced Urology Associates medical team is highly experienced in prostate procedures like prostate screenings, biopsies, prostate ultrasounds, and prostate massage.
Prostate Procedures
Common prostate procedures include the prostate biopsy procedure, a prostate ultrasound, and prostate massage.
When a doctor finds an abnormal lump in the prostate or if a patient has high levels of PSA, prostate-specific antigen, in his blood, a prostate biopsy is necessary. A prostate biopsy procedure can take several forms including:
Prostate Biopsy
The entire prostate biopsy procedure typically takes only five to ten minutes. About six to twelve samples are obtained in the biopsy. Afterwards, patients can experience soreness, light bleeding, and a small amount of blood in urine and semen. Most patients take an antibiotic for a few days after the procedure to prevent infection.
Prostate Ultrasound
Prostate Massage
While some treatments for prostatitis are medicines, they aren’t always that effective. More and more doctors—like the experts at Advanced Urology—are employing prostatic massage (also known as prostate massage and prostate milking) as a more effective treatment.
A medical prostate massage involves the doctor inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the patient’s rectum and pressing on the prostate several times, a few times a week. The prostate massage is thought to be a successful treatment because it can open blocked ducts and help circulation.
