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Prostate Health: What to Know and When to Seek Care

The prostate is a small gland with an important role in men’s health. As men age, changes in the prostate are common. Some are benign (non-cancerous), while others may require closer evaluation.

At Mayo Clinic, our Department of Urology provides expert, personalized care for the full range of prostate conditions—from routine concerns to complex cancer care. This page is designed to help you understand prostate health, recognize symptoms, and know when to seek care.

What is the prostate?

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.

The prostate helps produce fluid that is part of semen.

Common prostate conditions

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that commonly occurs with aging.

As the prostate grows, it can press on the urethra and affect urination.

Common symptoms include:

  • Weak urine stream
  • Difficulty starting urination
  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Feeling that the bladder does not fully empty

BPH is very common and treatable.

Prostatitis

Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate. It can occur at any age.

Symptoms may include:

  • Pelvic or perineal pain
  • Pain with urination or ejaculation
  • Urinary urgency or frequency
  • Discomfort in the lower back or groin

Some forms are related to infection, while others are not. Treatment depends on the cause.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Many cases grow slowly, but some can be more aggressive.

In early stages, prostate cancer often has no symptoms. That is why screening and evaluation are important.

When symptoms do occur, they may overlap with BPH:

  • Changes in urination
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Bone pain (in advanced cases)

 

Prostate cancer screening

Screening helps detect prostate cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Common screening tools include:

  • PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test
  • Digital rectal exam (DRE)

Screening decisions are individualized and based on:

  • Age
  • Family history
  • Personal risk factors

Your care team can help you decide if and when screening is right for you.

Why prostate health changes happen

Prostate conditions can develop for different reasons:

  • Aging – the most common factor in BPH
  • Inflammation or infection – in prostatitis
  • Genetics and risk factors – in prostate cancer

Hormones, lifestyle, and overall health also play a role.

When should you seek care?

You should consider evaluation if you have:

  • Ongoing urinary symptoms
  • Pain in the pelvic area or with urination
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • A rising PSA level
  • A family history of prostate cancer
  • Concerns about prostate health

Early evaluation can help clarify the cause and guide treatment.

What to expect at your visit

At Mayo Clinic, your evaluation is focused and personalized.

Your visit may include:

  • A discussion of your symptoms and health history
  • Physical examination, including DRE when appropriate
  • Lab testing (such as PSA)
  • Imaging or additional testing if needed

We aim to avoid unnecessary testing while ensuring a thorough evaluation.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on your diagnosis, symptoms, and preferences.

For BPH

  • Lifestyle changes
  • Medications to improve urinary flow
  • Minimally invasive procedures
  • Surgery in select cases

For prostatitis

  • Antibiotics (if infection is present)
  • Anti-inflammatory treatments
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy (in some cases)

For prostate cancer

Options vary based on cancer type and stage:

  • Active surveillance (monitoring low-risk cancer)
  • Surgery (prostate removal)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Other advanced treatments when needed

Our team works closely with you to choose the approach that best fits your goals and values.

A team-based approach

Prostate care at Mayo Clinic involves a coordinated team, which may include:

  • Urologists specializing in prostate conditions
  • Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) who help manage care and follow-up
  • Nurses and care coordinators who support your care journey
  • Radiologists and pathologists who assist with diagnosis
  • Oncology specialists when cancer care is needed

This collaborative approach ensures that care is comprehensive and well-coordinated.

Taking the next step

Prostate concerns are common, and many conditions are highly treatable—especially when identified early.

If you have symptoms or questions about prostate health, seeking care is an important first step.

Why choose Mayo Clinic?

  • Expertise in both common and complex prostate conditions
  • Access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatments
  • A patient-centered, team-based approach
  • Focus on clear communication and shared decision-making

Moving forward

Your prostate health is an important part of your overall well-being. Whether you are managing symptoms, considering screening, or seeking a second opinion, our team is here to help.

Request an appointment
If you would like to be evaluated for a prostate condition, you can request an appointment with the Mayo Clinic Department of Urology. We are here to support you with expert, compassionate care.