Introduction:
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and rectum that plays several important roles in the male reproductive system. Its main function is to produce prostate fluid, one of the main components of semen.
The prostate fluid helps transport and protect sperm during ejaculation. The prostate also contains smooth muscles that help propel semen through the urethra during ejaculation. It produces PSA (prostate-specific antigen), a protein found in semen that helps liquefy it after ejaculation. The prostate undergoes rapid growth during puberty due to testosterone and other male hormones. Growth of the prostate doesn't stop after puberty, and many men experience benign prostate enlargement as they age. This can sometimes cause urinary symptoms if the enlarged prostate presses on the urethra. While the prostate plays several vital roles, many men know little about this mysterious gland.
However, as conversations around men's health and sexual wellness grow, understanding the prostate is becoming increasingly important.
Prostate Massage 101
A prostate massage involves massaging the prostate gland, which surrounds the male urethra. The prostate gland is located between the bladder and penis, in front of the rectum. The purpose of a prostate massage is to provide sexual pleasure, help relieve prostate pain and inflammation, improve erectile function, or enhance orgasm by stimulating the prostate.
To perform a prostate massage, a finger or prostate massager is gently inserted into the rectum about 2-3 inches towards the navel. The pad of the finger or curved tip of the massager is then rubbed back and forth or in a circular motion along the front wall of the rectum, where the prostate is located.
The pressure and speed varies based on personal preference. Some men can achieve a prostate orgasm from this massage alone. Lubricant should always be used for comfort and to avoid irritation.
Prostate massage can be performed solo or by a partner. Seeking an experienced practitioner for your first prostate massage is recommended to ensure proper technique. When done correctly, a prostate massage should not cause pain or discomfort. Most men report the sensation as highly pleasurable. With practice, prostate massage provides an additional source of sexual enjoyment for men. Potential Health Benefits Prostate massage may provide certain potential health benefits, though more research is needed. Here are some of the possible benefits according to doctors:
Improving erectile dysfunction - While there isn't strong scientific evidence, doctors theorize that prostate massage could potentially help improve erectile dysfunction. The reasoning is that massaging the prostate may increase blood flow, which could lead to better erections. More research is needed, but some men do report improvements after prostate massage.
Improving urine flow - If a man has prostate swelling or inflammation, it can put pressure on the urethra and bladder, leading to slow or interrupted urine flow. Doctors state that prostate massage may help decrease inflammation and relieve this pressure for better urine flow. Pelvic floor exercises like Kegels can also help in this area.
Alleviating painful ejaculation - Prostate massage may help reduce inflammation that contributes to painful ejaculation. It can also help relax tight pelvic floor muscles which are another potential cause. This should be done carefully under the guidance of a specialist.
Helping treat prostatitis - Prostatitis is a common prostate gland inflammation, often caused by a bacterial infection. While antibiotics are the primary treatment, some doctors have seen positive results using prostate massage as well to help relieve symptoms. However, more studies are still needed.
Alleviating enlarged prostate symptoms - Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate, is common in older men. Prostate massage combined with medications may help reduce urination issues associated with BPH, based on a small 2006 case study. More research is required to confirm effects.
It Feels Really Freaking Good The "male G-spot" is packed with thousands of nerve endings, which means that when you stimulate it, it feels really, really good. In fact, some men report being able to reach intense, full-body orgasms from prostate stimulation alone.
These highly pleasurable sensations occur because massaging the prostate provides direct stimulation to the numerous nerve endings in the area. The prostate can produce orgasms that are quite different from penile orgasms - they have been described as more spread out through the whole body and longer-lasting. Prostate orgasms don't always involve ejaculation, but can result in a release of prostatic fluid.
Many men say these prostate-induced orgasms feel stronger and more satisfying than orgasms from penile stimulation alone. The key is taking the time to gently massage the prostate and build arousal. With the right technique and patience, men can experience mind-blowing climaxes through prostate massage. Exploring and mapping this often neglected erogenous zone can open up new avenues of sexual pleasure.
How to Try It?
Tips for Beginners
If you're new to prostate play, start slow and communicate with your partner. Trying prostate stimulation for the first time can feel vulnerable, so go at your own pace.
Make sure you are relaxed before starting. Do some deep breathing exercises and engage in foreplay to help your body warm up. Use plenty of lube. The anus does not self-lubricate like a vagina, so lube is essential for comfort and pleasure. Water-based lubes work best. Trim your fingernails to avoid scratching delicate tissue. Trimmed, smooth nails will be much more comfortable.
Go slowly and gently, especially at first. Start with light, external touching before penetrating. Apply pressure in a "come hither" motion.
Curve your finger and stroke gently to stimulate the prostate. Don't jab. Adjust the speed and pressure based on feedback.
Check in with your partner regularly.
Try toys designed for prostate play.
Toys allow you to relax and enjoy the sensations. Clean up afterward. Bacteria from the rectum can cause infections, so wash thoroughly. Prostate massage takes patience, preparation and practice.
Stay tuned into each other's bodies, take your time, and most importantly, have fun!