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The prostate is made up of thousands of tiny fluid-producing
glands. Specifically, the prostate is an exocrine gland. Exocrine
glands are so-called because they secrete through ducts to
the outside of the body (or into a cavity that communicates
with the outside). Sweat glands are another example of an
exocrine gland
The fluid that the prostate gland produces forms part of semen,
the fluid that carries sperm during orgasm. This fluid, produced
in the prostate is stored with sperm in the seminal vesicles.
When the male climaxes, muscular contractions cause the prostate
to secrete this fluid into the urethra, where it is expelled
from the body through the penis.
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As well, the prostate produces a protein called Prostate
specific antigen (PSA).
PSA is released with the ejaculatory fluid and can also be
traced in the blood stream. The testing of PSA levels in the
blood is used to detect prostate cancer. More information
on PSA can be found in the Diagnosis
section of The Prostate Centre
In addition to the prostate's role in producing ejaculate,
it also plays a part in controlling the flow of urine. The
prostate wraps itself around the urethra as it passes from
the bladder to the penis. Muscular fibres in the prostate
contract to slow the flow of urine. |
