The prostate is a walnut-sized exocrine gland of the male reproductive system. It is located in the lower pelvic region and serves many important functions in reproduction. Healthy prostate function is important for males, as its primary goal is to nourish and protect sperm. This is achieved with annual prostate exams, maintaining a healthy weight and keeping cholesterol levels under control, according to the website Prostate Health.
Seminal Fluid Production
The prostate gland is responsible for producing the thin, milky fluid that accounts for approximately 30 to 35 percent of a male's semen. This seminal fluid is secreted from the prostate gland into the urethra during ejaculation. It is a combination of enzymes, citric acid, zinc, calcium, acid phosphatase and albumin, according to PSA Rising. These proteins and chemicals protect the delicate sperm and increase their motility.
Prostate-Specific Antigen
The prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a particularly important protein secreted by the prostate gland. It is secreted in the seminal fluid during ejaculation and functions to liquefy or break apart the coagulum of the seminal fluid after the semen has entered the female vaginal canal, according to the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. This increases the sperm's ability to swim into the uterus to fertilize an egg. The PSA reverses the effects of certain clotting enzymes responsible for coagulating seminal fluid.
Urine Flow Control
The prostate gland contains a muscular gland referred to as the sphincter. During ejaculation, this muscle contracts and blocks the bladder to prevent urine from entering the urethra and mixing with semen. This provides further protection to the sperm, as urine can damage and kill sperm. Contraction of the sphincter also helps expel seminal fluid out of the urethra during ejaculation, according to PSA Rising.
