Benign Prostate Enlargement

Benign prostate enlargement is where a small gland found near a man’s bladder, called the “prostate” is bigger than usual.  It is not usually serious.

Many men worry that having an enlarged prostate means they have an increased risk of developing “prostate cancer”.  This is NOT the case.

If the prostate becomes enlarged, it can place pressure on the bladder and the urethra, which is the tube that urine passes through.

It is not clear what causes benign prostate enlargement; it’s thought to be linked to hormone changes that happen as you get older, and this may cause your prostate gland to grow.

Symptoms include:- 

Finding it difficult to start peeing.

Straining to pee.

Having a weak flow of urine.

Stop-start peeing.

Needing to pee urgently and/or frequently.

Accidentally leaking urine.

If you have mild symptoms, you do not usually need immediate treatment.  If it is more severe, you may need medicine or surgery to make your prostate smaller. 

A GP can discuss your symptoms and concerns, please either book in a routine telephone consultation or submit an E-Consult (found on the front page of our website).