Before I touch upon the part of prostate massage therapy, let's know about the function of the prostate gland in the body, in brief. The prostate gland is an important part of the male anatomy that takes part in sexual responses, and is essential for carrying out the process of ejaculation. This gland is also responsible for regulating bladder control, apart from maintaining normal sexual functioning. The main function of the prostate gland is to nourish the sperm, so that they can make their way through the vaginal tract for fertilization. This it done by producing a seminal fluid that is alkaline in nature with a pH of 7.29. This liquid (white or milky) helps in neutralizing the acidity of the vaginal tract, which otherwise, would be detrimental to the sperm. About 30% of the fluid that is ejaculated by the male, comprises this milky fluid. Thus, by providing a protective medium for the sperm, this gland actually increases the chances of pregnancy by helping the sperm reach the egg for fertilization. Apart from this basic purpose, this gland also prevents urination during ejaculation. This it does by closing the urethra during sexual intercourse. The rest of the article throws light on the benefits of prostate massage and other important aspects related to it. What Is Prostate Massage And How Does It Benefit Men? Prostate massage could also be regarded as prostate milking. However, it is termed as 'massage' when it is done with the purpose of treating medical problems such as chronic prostatitis. The word 'milking' is used when the intended result of the massage is to achieve enhanced ejaculations, and sexual pleasure without the need of any typical forms of sexual stimulation. With regular massage of the prostate gland, most men have found relief with their problems with impotency, have experienced regular ejaculation, and improved erectile function. The therapy is also believed to treat or prevent prostate enlargement. How is the Therapy Carried Out One can go for self prostate massage in the form of internal massage, external massage or one which is assisted with the help of a device. Each of these types have been briefly discussed in the following segment. External Prostate Massage Before beginning the massage, ensure that your nails are trimmed and meticulously clean. Externally, the prostate gland can be accessed through the strip that lies in between the scrotum ("the external pouch that contains the testes") and the anus. This is known as the perineum. So once you are there, using the pads of your fingers, exert gentle pressure on it. Try to find a slight depression in the smoothness of a surface, that runs the length of the perineum. When you do, run your fingers back and forth over this depression. This massage may result in an erection and when properly done, can also result in ejaculation. However, if you feel some kind of pain or discomfort in doing so, it means you are exerting too much pressure. Internal Prostate Massage As with the external massage, your hands must be cleansed and nails must be trimmed. It is better if you have a bowel movement before you begin the session. Things you would require would be close fitting rubber gloves and water-based lubricant. Begin lubricating the anus by stroking it in circular motions. It is better if the lubrication is lengthy and slow. Never try to rush your fingertip into the anus, but gently and firmly apply pressure using the pad. Keep applying the lubrication, and when the anus muscles begin to adjust, they would allow the finger to enter. After you have made the entrance, crook the finger upwards, towards the wall of the abdomen. You would feel a walnut-size about 2 inches inside the rectum. This would be the prostate gland. Now, you can begin the massage by applying more or less pressure in order to control the sensations. It is better if you only go for the sides of the organ, as the center is known to be too sensitive. Be mindful to only use the pads of your fingers, and not the nails. By providing varying pressure on the gland, you may experience an erection, and continuing it may also result in ejaculation. During the massage, if you feel any pain or tenderness, then it is recommended to reduce the pressure, or stop the activity altogether. Hands-Free Prostate Massage Nowadays, you can avail devices which are dedicated to this kind of massage. The prime advantage of using such devices is a hands-free experience. For internal massage, you can make use of the Pro-State Internal Prostate Massager. This instrument comes with a non-porous plastic, is anatomically designed, has a sharply angled head, and has better contact on the prostate gland. Its approximate price is $67.00. This works by stimulating the sphincter muscle to massage the gland. The Prostate Cradle is a device which comes in handy during external massaging of the gland. It is to be placed on a chair or on a firm surface. When the person sits on it, the cradle stimulates the perineum just like it is in the case of external hand massage of the prostate. Its approximate price is $57.89. Although the prostate massage technique does good for the gland, it must be known that it also harbors a risk of causing damage to the gland, especially in the case of the internal massage. The damage could occur if the person is suffering from some kind of medical condition or if the massage is done vigorously. Men with cancer of the prostate gland, or infection of the same, are advised against this therapy. This is because, the massage can trigger the cancer to metastasize, or may cause the infection to spread to other parts of the body. The prostate gland is extremely fragile by nature, and that is why one must proceed with proper precautions before going for the massage. It is always wise to consult your physician about the benefits of such massages for you as an individual.