Massaging the Prostate to Check for Prostate Cancer

Massaging the prostate gland is used both as a diagnostic tool to check for prostate cancer and treatment for some conditions of the prostate, such as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Many men are not aware of the location and purpose of a gland that plays such an important role in male sexual health. When it comes to massaging the prostate gland, those men do not know what to do and how to do it.

The prostate gland is a walnut-sized organ located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It partially surrounds the ureter. Its function is to secrete fluid that makes up part of the male ejaculate. This fluid contains nutrients to nourish semen and help neutralize female vaginal secretions. In addition, the prostate can be a source of sexual pleasure for men when it is stimulated; the prostate contributes to ejaculation.

There are several conditions which may affect the prostate. Prostatitis is an infection or inflammation of the prostate, which often results in difficult urination. Benign prostatic hypertrophy is a benign enlargement of the prostate gland which commonly affects men as they age. The most serious condition of the prostate, however, is prostate cancer.

During a prostate exam, a physician will examine a prostate with a massage. A patient can either stand and bend over with slightly spread legs or on his side on an examining table.  The physician will insert a lubricated, gloved finger gently into the rectum. A reflex will cause the rectum to squeeze closed; this sensation will pass. When the patient is relaxed, the finger is advanced until the prostate is felt against the front wall of the rectum. The procedure is brief and may be mildly uncomfortable. Relaxing during the procedure will ease discomfort.

By palpating the prostate in this manner, the physician can judge its size and shape. An enlarged and tender prostate may indicate an inflamed prostate or benign hypertrophy of the gland. An irregular or nodular contour may indicate possible prostate cancer; further tests may be ordered if prostate cancer is suspected upon exam.

Physicians will sometimes recommend that patients massage their own prostate in order to relieve the pressure that swelling of the prostate may cause. The steps to massage the prostate are as follows:

    Assume a comfortable position. You can either stand and lean against an object at a comfortable height or lay on your side with your knees flexed.
    Use a liberal amount of lubrication on the index finger of your dominant hand.
    Gently insert the finger into the rectum. The prostate gland will be felt as a bulge in the rectal wall towards the front of the body.
    Gently massage the gland, applying no more pressure than you would apply to rubbing your eye. Stop immediately if any pain occurs. Expression of seminal fluid is normal (and is the goal). However, if blood is present, discontinue massage immediately.
Prostate massage can be beneficial in some conditions. However, care should be taken not to damage the delicate tissues of the gland. Massaging the prostate can be important in both diagnosis and treatment of certain conditions of the prostate, such as prostatitis and benign prostatic hypertrophy. Before commencing prostate massage, a physician should be cnsulted to ensure there are no contraindications to the procedure.