Male prostate gland: 13 steps to identify abnormalities.

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized organ located just below the bladder in men. Despite its small size, it plays a crucial role in the production of semen – an essential element for male fertility and sexual health.

Understanding the location and function of the prostate gland helps men be more proactive in reproductive health care, detecting early signs of disorders or dangerous diseases such as prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer.

In this article, the doctor will guide you on how to identify the safe location of the prostate gland , when to seek medical attention , and early warning signs to protect men's health most effectively.

How to locate the prostate gland

The prostate gland is a small organ located inside the male body that plays a vital role in producing semen and maintaining sexual health. Locating the prostate gland helps doctors examine, check for, or detect early abnormalities related to this organ. Below is a basic guide to understanding the location and safely accessing the prostate gland, which should only be performed in a medical setting.

Location of the prostate gland

• The prostate gland is located just below the bladder , surrounding the urethra – the tube that carries urine out of the body.

• When palpated from within the rectum, this gland is located between the penis and the navel , feeling slightly raised, firm, and smooth to the touch.

How doctors typically check the prostate gland.

• Use sterile medical gloves and lubricant to reduce friction and avoid damaging the rectal mucosa.

• Gently insert your index finger into the anus , pointing the fingertip towards the lower abdomen (the area between the navel and the penis) .

• When examining the prostate gland, the doctor will feel its size, firmness, and elasticity to detect signs of inflammation, enlargement, or abnormal tumors.

Important note

• Do not attempt this at home without medical guidance, as it may cause pain, abrasions, or infection.

• If you experience symptoms such as difficulty urinating, painful urination, pelvic pain, painful ejaculation, or blood in your semen , you should consult a urologist or andrologist for prompt examination.

Part 1: How to perform a prostate self-examination at home using your finger.

Step 1: When should you get a prostate checkup and how can you do it safely?

Prostate examinations are essential for early detection of conditions such as prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer. However, this should only be performed by a specialist to ensure accuracy and safety.

Reasons why you shouldn't self-examine your prostate at home.

• Self-examination can lead to damage to the rectum or prostate gland if performed incorrectly.

• People without professional training may find it difficult to recognize abnormal signs through touch.

• There is a risk of inflammation, infection, or minor bleeding if aseptic techniques are not followed.

When should you see a prostate doctor?

• Men over 40 should have regular checkups to detect any abnormalities early.

• People at high risk for prostate cancer (family history, smoking, high-fat diet) should talk to their doctor about getting a DRE – digital rectal examination .

• If you experience symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination at night, pelvic pain, or painful ejaculation , you should see a doctor immediately to determine the cause.

Prostate stimulation for pleasure purposes.

• This action is not within the scope of medicine ; however, if performed, strict safety protocols must be followed :

  • Use clean gloves and a water-based lubricant .

  • Proceed very slowly and gently , avoiding causing pain or injury.

  • Stop immediately if you experience discomfort, pain, or bleeding .

Step 2: Proper hygiene before a prostate examination

Before performing a rectal or prostate examination, thoroughly cleaning the anal area helps reduce the risk of infection and makes the patient more comfortable. However, this should be done gently and correctly to avoid damaging sensitive tissues.

Safe and effective cleaning methods

• Bathe with warm water and mild soap , thoroughly cleaning the buttocks and anal area .

• Using a soft towel or sponge , gently wipe and clean the area.

• Afterward, rinse thoroughly with water , avoiding leaving any soap residue that could irritate the skin.

• Keep the area dry and clean before the examination.

Things to avoid

• Do not use rough towels, brushes, or scrub vigorously , as this may scratch or irritate the anal mucosa .

• Do not attempt to rinse deep inside the rectum , as this does not help to clean it better and increases the risk of injury.

• Accept that this area cannot be completely clean , and that is perfectly normal from a physiological standpoint.

Step 3: Prepare your hands properly before a prostate examination.

To ensure safety and avoid injury when accessing the rectal area, it is crucial to have clean hands, trimmed nails, and use sterile gloves.

The correct way to prepare

• Trim and file your fingernails short using specialized tools to remove any sharp edges or protrusions, especially on the index finger – the finger that will be used during the examination.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water , then dry them completely before putting on gloves.

• Wearing sterile medical gloves on your hands while performing the examination helps minimize the risk of infection.

Important note

• Even if you're only touching your rectal area, you should still wear gloves to protect both yourself and this sensitive area from bacteria.

• Remove all jewelry, especially rings, from the fingers used to avoid tearing the gloves or scratching the mucous membranes.

Step 4: Proper lubrication before a prostate examination.

Lubrication is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable prostate examination. Below is a detailed guide on how to perform the procedure correctly and effectively.

Safe lubrication methods

• Use Vaseline (medical lubricant) or a water-based lubricant such as KY Gel – these are two types commonly used by doctors in rectal procedures.

• Apply a generous amount of lubricant to your index finger – the finger that will be inserted into the rectum.

• Ensure that the entire finger is covered from the fingertip to at least the middle knuckle to avoid friction that could cause pain or abrasions.

• If needed, an additional thin layer can be applied around the anal area to facilitate the procedure.

Important note

• Don't skimp on the amount of gel; the more lubricant, the lower the risk of mucosal damage .

• Use only specialized lubricants ; do not use cooking oil, lotions, or products of unknown origin as they may cause irritation.

Step 5: Correct posture during prostate examination

Body posture directly affects comfort and accessibility to the prostate during an examination. Choosing the right posture facilitates the examination process and reduces discomfort.

Recommended posture in a healthcare setting

• Typically, your doctor will instruct you to lie on your left side , with both knees bent up towards your chest .

• This position helps to widen the rectal area , making it easier for the doctor to access and examine the prostate gland accurately and safely.

If you need to self-assess or practice identifying locations.

• Stand upright, lean slightly forward , and you can use your hands on a table or chair for balance.

• This position helps to open up the hip area , making it easier to reach the prostate gland.

• Always perform the procedure slowly and gently , and only do it when you feel comfortable and it doesn't hurt.

Important note

• If you feel pain, discomfort, or tightness , stop immediately and do not continue .

• For the best results and to ensure complete safety, a prostate examination should be performed by a specialist in Andrology or Urology .

Step 6: Keep your body relaxed during the prostate examination.

Maintaining a relaxed state is crucial for a prostate examination to be easier, less painful, and safer . When the body is tense, the muscles around the anus and rectum contract, making the procedure difficult and uncomfortable.

Ways to help your body relax effectively

• Stay relaxed : understand that this is a normal medical procedure, performed quickly and safely.

• Relax your anal muscles : don't try to clench or resist the movement; instead, take deep breaths to reduce spasms.

• Practice deep breathing :

  • Inhale slowly through your nose, holding your breath for 2–3 seconds.

  • Exhale gently through your mouth, repeating a few times to allow your body to stabilize.

• If you're at home, you can put on some soft music or create a quiet space to help you relax before you start.

Important note

• The more relaxed the body, the easier and less uncomfortable it is to access the prostate gland .

• If you experience pain, tension, or excessive anxiety , stop and do not continue self-practice .

• In a medical setting, doctors will instruct you on how to relax properly to avoid damaging the rectal lining.

Step 7: How to safely insert a finger into the rectum during a prostate examination.

When performing a rectal examination of the prostate gland, the procedure should be performed slowly, gently, and with adequate lubrication to avoid causing pain or damage to sensitive tissue.

The correct way to do it

• Put on sterile gloves and apply enough lubricant to your index finger before you begin.

• Gently insert your fingertip into the anus , moving slowly to allow the body time to adjust.

• When the first joint of your finger (near the nail) has entered the rectum, pause , take a deep breath to keep your body relaxed.

• Continue to feel gently, without pressing or twisting forcefully , as this could cause pain or abrasions to the mucous membrane.

Important note

• When starting out, it's best to familiarize yourself with the sensations and internal structure first , before considering using a prostate stimulation device.

• Don't rush , especially if you feel pain or stiffness – stop and relax before continuing.

• Maintain a clean, sterile environment to prevent anorectal infections.

Step 8: How to correctly locate the prostate gland

After inserting your finger into the rectum, correctly identifying the direction of movement will help you feel the prostate gland more easily, while avoiding discomfort or injury.

The right way to orient yourself during an exam.

• Once your finger has entered about 2–3 cm , point it forward , towards the area between your navel and penis .

• Instead of bending the knuckle, gently adjust the entire direction of the index finger forward.

• The prostate gland is usually felt as a slightly raised, firm, smooth mass located just in front of the rectal wall.

Important note

• Do not push too deeply or use excessive force , as this may cause pain or damage to the mucous membrane.

• If you feel any sharp pain, stinging, or tightness , stop immediately .

• When examined in a medical setting, the doctor can manipulate the prostate gland more precisely, allowing for a better assessment of its size, density, and elasticity to detect any abnormalities.

Step 9: Proper and safe prostate palpation

Once your finger is lubricated and properly positioned, you can continue to insert it deeper to reach the prostate gland. This step should be done very gently, with control and attention to your body's sensations .

How to identify prostate problems

• Continue gently inserting your index finger deeper until the middle joint of your finger enters the rectum.

• You will feel a round, soft, and smooth area located on the anterior wall of the rectum — that is the prostate gland .

• When touched, a brief urge to urinate may occur, which is completely normal and harmless.

In medical examinations (DRE – digital rectal examination)

• The doctor will gently palpate for about 5–10 seconds to assess the size, firmness, and appearance of any abnormal masses such as lumps, nodules, or hard areas.

• This is a simple method to help detect early prostate conditions such as inflammation, enlargement, or cancer.

Cases of stimulation for the purpose of pleasure.

• You can gently massage the prostate area with your fingertips in a circular motion or apply light pressure.

• The feeling of well-being can come after a few seconds to a few minutes , depending on individual physiology and level of relaxation.

• If you experience pain, burning, or discomfort, stop immediately to avoid soft tissue damage.

Some special cases

• About 6% of men have a prostate gland located deep inside , making it too small to reach with a finger — this is perfectly normal, even for specialists.

• If further examination is needed, the doctor may use specialized medical equipment or a transrectal ultrasound probe for a more accurate assessment.

Step 10: How to withdraw your finger and clean up after a prostate examination.

After completing the prostate examination, you need to withdraw your finger slowly, using the correct technique, and clean it thoroughly to avoid injury or infection.

How to do it safely

• Relax your anal muscles and slowly withdraw your finger ; do not pull or yank it out suddenly.

• After removing your finger from the rectum, use your other hand to grasp the cuff of the glove and turn it inside out to trap any debris inside.

• Dispose of gloves in the trash can ; do not reuse or litter.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water , then dry them with a clean towel .

Note after inspection

• If you experience pain, burning, or bleeding , stop self-treating and consult a specialist .

• Proper hand and instrument hygiene helps prevent the risk of infection or irritation in the anal area .

• After finishing, you should rest for a few minutes and avoid strenuous activity immediately.

Part 2: How to detect abnormal prostate symptoms

Step 1: Recognize the signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH/BPE)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition where the prostate gland enlarges with age, commonly seen in men over 50. It is a benign condition, not cancerous , but if left untreated, it can affect urinary function and quality of life.

Common signs and symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland.
If you have one or more of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor for a proper evaluation:

• Weak urine stream , intermittent urination.

• The feeling of not completely emptying your bladder , even after just urinating.

• Difficulty initiating urination ; having to strain to urinate.

• Urine leakage after finishing .

• Frequent urination , especially at night .

• Urgency to urinate , sudden urge to urinate, sometimes not having time to get to the toilet .

When should you see a doctor immediately?

• If you experience significant difficulty urinating , burning sensation during urination , or complete inability to urinate , this could be acute urinary retention , requiring urgent medical attention to relieve the obstruction.

Diagnosis and assessment of severity

• Based on symptoms, a digital rectal examination (DRE) may be performed, and an ultrasound or PSA test may be ordered to rule out prostate cancer.

• You can conduct an initial self-assessment using the Enlarged Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire here: https://www.bostonscientific.com/content/dam/bostonscientific-anz/patients/downloads/Enlarged_Prostate_Symptom_Score_Questionnaire.pdf

Step 2: Recognize the warning signs of more serious prostate problems.

Not all prostate-related symptoms are due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH/BPE). In some cases, these symptoms may be signs of infection, chronic inflammation, or prostate cancer – conditions that require early diagnosis and treatment .

Warning signs to watch out for
If you notice any of the following symptoms, please contact a urologist or andrologist immediately :

• Blood in the urine or semen is a sign suggesting damage or inflammation to the prostate gland.

• Pain or burning sensation during urination – often associated with prostatitis or urinary tract infections .

• Pain during ejaculation , accompanied by a heavy feeling in the perineal area.

• Dull pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis, anus, or inner thighs could be a sign of chronic prostatitis or advanced prostate cancer .

When is an early check-up necessary?

• If symptoms persist for more than 1–2 weeks and do not improve with rest or regular pain medication.

• If you notice blood in your urine/semen or experience pain radiating to the pelvic or lower back area , you should seek medical attention promptly to rule out malignancy.

Doctor's advice

• Do not self-medicate or delay seeking medical attention when experiencing unusual symptoms.

• Regular checkups and PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing help detect prostate cancer early, when it is still treatable.

Step 3: Undergo testing and treatment under the guidance of a specialist doctor.

When suspicious symptoms appear in the prostate gland, a thorough examination and specialized tests are necessary to determine the exact cause. This helps doctors choose the appropriate treatment plan and avoid unnecessary intervention.

Commonly ordered tests

• Digital rectal examination (DRE) : a doctor uses a gloved finger to examine the rectum and assess the size, density, and abnormalities of the prostate gland.

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test : helps detect early signs of prostate cancer or infection.

• Ultrasound, CT scan, or prostate biopsy : These are performed when initial results suggest malignancy or severe enlargement.

Understanding Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) Correctly

• DRE is not a perfect test , as it may be difficult for the doctor to feel the front part of the prostate gland.

• However, it remains a valuable screening tool , helping to detect early structural changes or abnormal masses.

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the disease.

• If diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer , your doctor may recommend "watchful waiting" instead of immediate treatment.

• The reason is that some forms of prostate cancer develop very slowly , while the side effects of treatment (such as urinary disorders, decreased libido) can significantly impact quality of life.

• The decision to treat or monitor the patient will be carefully considered by the urologist and the specialist treatment team , based on the patient's age, overall health, and wishes.

Doctor's advice

• Be actively involved in treatment decisions , but don't disregard expert advice – they rely on clinical evidence and real-world experience to ensure your safety.

• Regular checkups and monitoring of prostate health indicators help detect and manage the disease more effectively at an early stage .

References

1. https://youtu.be/fUwLRtJN4Aw?t=135
2. https://youtu.be/fUwLRtJN4Aw?t=150
3. https://youtu.be/fUwLRtJN4Aw?t=170
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3302122/
5. https://youtu.be/fUwLRtJN4Aw?t=180
6. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000381.htm
7. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/prostate-problems
8. https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-az/p/prostate-cancer
9. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/how-diagnosed.html
10. https://www.cdc.gov/prostate-cancer/screening/
11. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/tests.html
12. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/prostate-cancer/watchful-waiting-for-prostate-cancer

Translated by: Rowan Hudson Le .