BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate.  The prostate is a small gland that encircles the urethra in men and produces a fluid that makes up part of the semen fluid.  As the prostate gets larger pressure is put on the urethra.  This pressure can cause the urine stream to slow down, the urinary flow to hesitate, create a sensation of needing to urinate frequently and urgently; cause post void dribbling, can lead to urinary retention and the weakening of the bladder muscles, which then increases the chance of urinary tract infections.   The need to urinate frequently at night (nocturia) can lead to sleep disorders.

 

BPH can also affect sexual function.  It can be a cause for reduced sexual ability, painful orgasams and impotency.   

 

Studies from the American Urology Association shows that 50% of men will experience some form of BPH by the time they are 60 years of age and up to 90% of men will be affected by the time they reach 80 years of age.  BPH does not cause prostate cancer, but frequently the two are found together.

 

Symptoms include:  slow stream, hesitating stream, sensation to void frequently and urgently, post void dribbling, frequent need to urinate at night, urinary tract infections.

 

Treatments include:  Medications to relax and/or shrink the prostate.  Non operative treatment includes; transurethral microwave therapy; Surgical treatment includes; prostatectomy, laser ablation or vaporization, TURP.