If you’re like most people, you’re only somewhat familiar with the prostate. You likely know a bit about what it is and approximately where in the body it’s located. It’s always a good idea to develop a working understanding of the basics though, especially if you happen to have a prostate of your own.
We’ll take a closer look at everything you ever wanted to know about your prostate, including the basics of prostate health. We’ll cover what the prostate actually is and does. And we’ll touch on how integrating your prostate into your intimate routine can make sex even better.
What Is the Prostate?
As the prostate is only found in those who are biologically male, it’s and important part of the male reproductive system. It plays a critical role in the proper functioning of sperm, as it’s responsible for producing much of the fluid volume of semen. The prostate is not a vital organ, so a man can absolutely survive without one. However, it is essential for human reproduction, meaning prostate issues can cause (or add to) fertility issues in men.
The prostate gland is physically located right below the bladder and around the urethra, but above the muscles of the man’s pelvic floor. It’s also positioned just in front of the rectum, which is why a prostate checkup involves a rectal exam. Size-wise, the prostate is about the size and shape of a walnut in a post-pubescent male. However, around the age of 50 or so, most men’s prostates slowly but surely begin to enlarge.
Why Is the Prostate Important?
About 30 percent of the fluid you think of as semen is generated by the prostate and is formulated specifically to nourish sperm, as well as help them stay mobile once ejaculation occurs. Among other things, this fluid (known as prostatic fluid) contains a cocktail of minerals, enzymes, proteins, and other components. During ejaculation, this fluid will mix with the actual sperm, as well as other secretions, in the urethra.
In addition to supplying the fluid that makes up a portion of seminal fluid, the prostate is also responsible for closing off the urethra during ejaculation. This ensures the semen makes its way out of the body instead of being forced up into the bladder. The prostate also acts similarly to prevent urine from entering the seminal ducts during urination.
How Can You Take Care of Your Prostate?
The older a man gets, the more attention he’ll want to pay to the ongoing health of his prostate. Along with the gradual enlargement, the prostate can be prone to other issues, including chronic inflammation or even cancer. Making sure you get regular prostate exams is the best way to detect any potential issues before they progress. But there are measures you yourself can take to keep up your prostate health.
- Maintaining a healthful, balanced diet – especially as you age – will help prevent a lot of issues, including problems with your prostate. Green, leafy vegetables (e.g. kale, spinach, broccoli, and various lettuces) are especially beneficial in this regard.
- Getting enough exercise is another important part of staying healthy as you age. Take extra special care to make sure you’re getting enough sunlight. Vitamin D is helpful in reducing your risk of prostate cancer.
How Does Prostate Stimulation Help Your Sex Life?
Not every man is interested in (or comfortable with) getting up close and personal with his prostate. However, it’s worth considering, as many men swear by it as the key to extremely powerful orgasms. You will probably need to become comfortable with the idea of anal play though, as anal penetration is the easiest way to reach the prostate (also sometimes known as the P-spot within sexual contexts). Here are some tips to keep in mind if you do decide P-spot stimulation is something you’d like to explore.
- Definitely use plenty of lube when exploring your prostate anally, but avoid using numbing lubes, as they’ll take away sensation – the exact opposite of what you want.
- Have a partner stimulate your prostate by gently inserting one finger into your anus and making a “come hither” motion once inside. You can also attempt to do this yourself.
- If you have trouble locating your P-spot, a small sex toy made specifically for anal play can help. For best results, opt for one made specifically with prostate stimulation in mind.
- It’s also possible to stimulate the prostate by pushing upward through the perineum, the patch of flesh between the testicles and the anus.
At the end of the day, it’s never a bad idea to get to know your body to the greatest extent possible. Get started today and improve both your health and your sex life!
