
Prostate Gland Enlargement Is More Common Than You Think—And You Don’t Need Surgery to Treat It

Let’s not beat around the bush—prostate gland enlargement can seriously wreak havoc with your life.
You’re waking up multiple times a night. You’re constantly planning your day around bathroom access. Your stream is weak, your patience is thinning, and your sleep is suffering.
It feels like it couldn’t get any worse—yet like millions of men, you’ve probably told yourself it’s just “part of getting older.”
And yet, like millions of men, you may have told yourself it’s just “part of getting older.”
Well, we’ve got news for you …
It’s not!
It’s a medical condition. And the best part? It’s treatable—without surgery.
Prostate gland enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is one of the most common but least discussed health issues affecting men over 50. But now, there’s a modern, minimally invasive procedure called Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) that’s helping men get their lives back—without scalpels, catheters, or long recoveries.
In this article, we’ll cut through the silence and stigma to show you what’s really going on—and how you can finally fix it.
What Exactly Is Prostate Gland Enlargement?
Prostate gland enlargement is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of the prostate gland that affects how urine flows through the urethra. As the gland grows, it squeezes the urethra, making urination more difficult and more frequent.
According to the Harvard Medical School, around 50% of men between the ages of 51 and 60 experience symptoms of prostate gland enlargement. That number jumps up to 90% by age 85. Yet, many suffer in silence, not knowing effective alternatives exist.
So, how can you tell if you have an enlarged prostate?
Common Symptoms of Prostate Gland Enlargement
- Weak or slow urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- A constant or urgent need to urinate
- Frequent nighttime urination (nocturia)
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- A sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
If you’re noticing these signs more often—or more intensely—it’s time to stop brushing them off.
Why Men Don’t Talk About It
For many men, talking about urinary symptoms is uncomfortable—even with close friends or a doctor. But suffering in silence doesn’t help, and neither does brushing it off as “just getting older.”
Prostate gland enlargement affects millions, yet awareness remains low. That’s why starting the conversation—and exploring all your treatment options—is a powerful first step toward feeling better.
Beyond Pills: A New Approach to Treatment
For years, the standard treatments for prostate gland enlargement were either daily medication or surgery. But neither is ideal for every man.
- Medications like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can ease symptoms, but they often come with side effects like dizziness, fatigue, and reduced sexual function.
- Surgery, including the common TURP procedure, can be effective but may involve hospital stays, catheters, bleeding, and sexual or urinary side effects.
That’s where Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) comes in—offering relief without the risks or downtime of traditional treatment.
Wondering if it’s right for you? Take a closer look at the benefits and considerations of PAE in this detailed MINT STL blog post.
What Is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?
PAE is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Here’s how it works:
- A tiny catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin artery.
- Microscopic beads are released to block blood flow to specific parts of the prostate.
- This causes the gland to shrink, reducing pressure on the urethra and easing symptoms.
PAE is typically done under local anesthesia, with no need for a hospital stay or catheter, and patients often return to normal activities within days.
Does PAE Actually Work, And Is It Worth It?
Yes—and the data backs it up:
- Studies show success rates between 75% and 94% depending on patient characteristics and treatment protocols.
- Symptom relief can last for 3 to 6 years.
- Lower risk of sexual side effects compared to surgery.
- Minimally invasive, with men receiving relief within a few weeks of undergoing PAE.
If you’re ready to explore PAE, it’s crucial to choose a provider with the right experience and care approach.
Why Choose MINT STL?
At MINT STL, we know how frustrating prostate gland enlargement can be—not just physically, but emotionally.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Specialists in PAE: Our interventional radiologists are highly trained and experienced in performing prostate embolization with precision and care.
- Collaborative care: We work closely with your urologist or primary physician to ensure a holistic, personalized plan.
- No hospital stay: PAE is done in our modern outpatient center, and most patients are home the same day.
- Patient-first focus: We take the time to listen, explain, and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.
Real Stories from Real Patients
“I went from four bathroom trips a night to one. I sleep better, work better, and feel more like myself again.”
— Derek, 64
“I didn’t want surgery, and I hated the meds. PAE was simple, fast, and it worked. I wish I’d known about it sooner.”
— Michael, 57
What to Do Next: Your 4-Step Path to Relief
- Track Your Symptoms
Use a tool like the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) to measure how symptoms are affecting your daily routine and quality of life.
- Get a Diagnosis
A simple physical exam, PSA blood test, and prostate ultrasound can confirm if you have BPH and whether it’s time to consider treatment.
- Explore Your Options
If pills aren’t working—or you want to avoid surgery—Prostate Artery Embolization may be your best path forward.
- Contact MINT STL
Our team will answer your questions, review your test results, and help you decide if PAE is right for your specific needs.
Don’t Let Prostate Gland Enlargement Control Your Life
You don’t have to keep living with the daily frustrations of prostate gland enlargement. Whether you’ve tried medications with little success or you’re looking to avoid surgery, there’s a modern, proven alternative that’s helping men regain comfort, control, and confidence.
At MINT STL, our expert interventional radiologists specialize in Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)—a safe, minimally invasive treatment that targets the root cause of your symptoms without disrupting your life. We understand how personal and sensitive this issue can be, and we’re here to offer clear answers and compassionate care every step of the way.
Take the first step toward relief today.
Contact the experienced team at MINT STL to schedule a consultation or learn more about how PAE can help you reclaim your quality of life- discreetly, safely, and without surgery.
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