An enlarged prostate occurs in men as a normal function of aging. Known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, an enlarged prostate is common among men after they pass the age of 50, with the likelihood increasing with age. Other causes might also contribute to an enlarged prostate.
BPH is a noncancerous condition that blocks the flow of urine from the bladder through the urethra. The prostate gland is located beneath the bladder. The eventual enlargement puts pressure on the urethra where urine and semen exit the body,
according to WebMD.
The bladder is forced to contract more. Over time, the bladder muscle becomes thicker and more sensitive. Contractions occur even with small amounts of urine in the bladder, which leads to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, leakage, and getting up at night to urinate.
Special: Top Doc Shares Simple Daily Habits for Healthy Prostate
The Mayo Clinic explained that prostate growth continues throughout life for most men and it is not entirely clear why, but changes in sex hormones as men get older might cause an enlarged prostate.
BPH does not increase a man’s risk of contracting
prostate cancer, Everyday Health noted.
Several factors other than aging might contribute to the enlargement of the prostate. Genetics may be involved when cells in the prostate automatically activate and grow later in life for men.
A decrease in the testosterone level could lead to BPH, Everyday Health reported. The amount of testosterone decreases as a man ages and estrogen in the man’s body increases. This could promote the growth of the prostate gland.
Prostate cells may continue to grow from a substance called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, which comes from testosterone. These cells grow even when testosterone levels fall as men age. The high levels of DHT build up in the prostate and may result in an enlarged prostate.
Alert: 5 Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer. How Many Do You Have?
An infected prostate and prostate cancer may contribute to an enlarged prostate. There is no pain associated with BPH, but the symptoms are uncomfortable at times and can be relieved through diet, exercise, and possibly herbs or supplements.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.