Protect Your Prostate This Movember

Despite there being over 47,000 cases each year in the UK, most men are still unaware of the risks of prostate cancer.

Over 92% of men don’t have a clue as to what the prostate gland does, 54% don’t know where it’s located, and 17% of men don’t even know they have one!

Well today we’re going back to school as Kegel8 teaches you all about your prostate; notepads at the ready…

What Is the Prostate?

The prostate is a small gland found only in men, located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra — the tube that carries urine out of the body. It is usually around the size of a walnut but naturally enlarges with age.

The prostate plays an important role in male reproductive health by producing fluid that mixes with sperm to create semen.

As men get older, prostate enlargement becomes more common and may lead to urinary symptoms such as a weak flow or needing to urinate more frequently.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells grow inside the prostate gland. Some prostate cancers grow very slowly and may never cause serious problems, while others can grow more aggressively and require treatment.

Early diagnosis is important, which is why understanding the symptoms and risk factors matters.

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Problems?

Common symptoms linked to prostate enlargement or prostate cancer can include:

• Needing to urinate more often
• Frequently waking at night to use the toilet
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine flow
• Straining or taking longer to empty the bladder
• Feeling the bladder has not fully emptied
• Blood in urine or semen
• Erectile difficulties

These symptoms do not always mean cancer, but they should never be ignored. If you notice ongoing urinary or prostate symptoms, speak to your GP or perform a Prostate Health Test at home using a home test kit.

How Does the Pelvic Floor Affect Prostate Health?

The pelvic floor muscles play a vital role in bladder control, bowel control and sexual function in men. Weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to urinary leaks, erectile dysfunction and reduced pelvic support — especially following prostate surgery or treatment.

Pelvic Floor Exercises for Men

Pelvic floor exercises (male Kegels) can help strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and bowel while improving pelvic control and confidence.

Regular pelvic floor training may help:

• Improve bladder control and reduce leaks
• Support recovery after prostate treatment or surgery
• Improve erectile function and sexual health
• Improve pelvic stability and core strength

Many men struggle to correctly activate their pelvic floor muscles manually. Electronic pelvic floor trainers may help improve muscle activation and make pelvic floor training easier and more effective.