Where is the male prostate located?

The prostate is one of the male-specific urogenital organs. Located within the pelvic cavity, anterior to the rectum, it resembles a chestnut in shape. The prostate surrounds the initial segment of the urethra—termed the prostatic urethra—and connects to the bladder via the bladder neck. Consequently, in clinical practice, urologists can perform a digital rectal examination (DRE) to palpate the prostate through the anus, thereby assessing its size, consistency, presence of nodules, and tenderness—key indicators for diagnosing prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate cancer.

In cases of prostatitis or BPH, the glandular tissue of the prostate enlarges, potentially compressing the urethra and causing various lower urinary tract symptoms, including urinary frequency, incomplete bladder emptying, increased nocturia, urinary hesitancy, diminished urine stream, and dysuria. Additionally, patients may experience a sensation of heaviness or discomfort in the perineum and anus, as well as dull, persistent pain in the lower abdomen.