Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
Bladder Prostate gland Urethra
Penis
What is the prostate gland? The prostate gland is only present in men. It sits at the outlet of the bladder and surrounds the urethra (the tube through which urine is passed). When a man has an orgasm, the gland squeezes a small amount of fluid into the semen to energise the sperm. After the age of 50, the prostate gland enlarges, squeezing the urethra and hence, slowing down the flow of urine.
Vas deferens
Testicle
A small number of men may develop a partial or complete blockage and suddenly find themselves unable to pass urine resulting in acute urinary retention. When this happens, the patient will usually need to have a fine tube (catheter) inserted into the bladder to empty it. Some patients can pass urine freely after the removal of the catheter. Others may require an operation.