A prostate massage involves stimulating the prostate gland to achieve medical benefits or sexual stimulation. The prostate can be massaged externally, or by inserting ones finger into the anus and gently massaging the muscles of the prostate gland. Before we learn about how to perform a prostate massage, let's see more about the prostate gland and its functions. The prostate is an important gland of the reproductive system in males. It is located just below the urinary bladder, surrounding the urethra, and is roughly the size of a walnut. This gland performs the function of secreting an alkaline fluid that mixes up with the spermatozoa to form seminal fluid. It constitutes about 50 - 75% of the seminal fluid. The alkalinity of the semen enhances the life of the sperm cells in the acidic vaginal tract, and hence improves the chances of fertilization. The prostate gland is partly muscular, which helps in discharging semen during ejaculation. These muscles also help control the flow of urine, and prevent urination during sexual intercourse. It also plays an important role in male sexual response. Prostate massage can be performed on your own, but it can also be performed by your health practitioner, or your sexual partner. Although the procedure may seem awkward to some men, prostate massage can be really helpful to those suffering from any type of prostate related complications. There are three ways of performing a prostate massage - external, internal, and using a prostate massage device. External Prostate Massage The prostate gland can be massaged externally by massaging the strip called the perineum, that lies between the root of the penis and the anus. The prostate gland is situated right above the perineum. To begin the process, make sure your nails are clean and trimmed. Using the pads of your fingers, run through the entire length of the perineum to find a slight depression on its surface. This depression is the area you need to massage in order to stimulate the prostate. Run your fingers back and forth over this area to stimulate the prostate gland. This method may result into an ejaculation. If you experience any pain during the massage, know that you are doing it wrong, and stop immediately. Internal Prostate Massage Before you begin the internal prostate massage, make sure your hands are clean and your fingernails are trimmed. If required, perform a bowel movement before you begin. Now wear a sterile latex glove and apply a water-based lubricant to your fingers. Slowly insert your finger into your rectum through your anus, and move it gradually upwards for about two to three inches in the direction of the navel. You should be able to reach your prostate gland, which will feel like a soft mass of round tissue. Gently stroke the gland along its sides in a wave-like motion, and make sure to avoid the central part of the prostate gland. The central part contains sensitive nerves that may get damaged due to a vigorous massage or due to the tip of the nails. Again, this massage may result in an ejaculation, and if there is any pain experienced, stop immediately. Using Prostate Massage Devices There are several products available in the market for performing a prostate massage. These devices allow for a hands-free experience, and are usually easier to use. Internal prostate massage devices works on the sphincter muscles to massage the prostate. External prostate massage devices massage the prostate externally by working on the perineum. ➤ Prostate massage has been found to be helpful in diagnosis as well as treatment of many diseases related to sexual health. ➤ It has been widely accepted and used as an alternative therapy for curing prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland. ➤ Prostate massage can help cure impotence and erectile dysfunction, by promoting the flow of seminal fluid and improving blood circulation. ➤ This massage can help in preventing or curing prostate enlargement caused due to pressure buildup of seminal fluid in the prostate gland. ➤ It can improve the flow of urine that gets hampered due to the enlargement of the prostate gland. ➤ Prostate massage releases the congestion in the prostate gland, thereby reducing the chances of infections. ➤ Prostate massage leads to higher levels of testosterone, and may result in enhanced sexual experience. The prostate gland is a soft internal organ in the body. Massaging it vigorously or damaging the sensitive nerves of the gland can have serious consequences. Vigorous prostate massage can lead to a blood poisoning condition called septicaemia. In those individuals suffering from prostate cancer, it can lead to the spread of the cancerous cells to other parts of the body. It may also lead to hemorrhoid problems like periprostatic hemorrhage. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that one seeks the advice and approval of a doctor before going in for this type of massage. Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by a medical professional.