About BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
A Common Condition That Can Disrupt Your Life
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – or enlarged prostate – is a non-cancerous condition that affects more than half of men over 50, and its prevalence increases with age. While not dangerous on its own, BPH can significantly interfere with your daily comfort and quality of life.
Recognizing the Symptoms
An enlarged prostate presses against the urethra, often leading to frustrating and persistent urinary issues, such as:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Weak or interrupted stream
- Difficulty starting urination (hesitancy)
- A sense of incomplete emptying
- Sudden urgency to urinate
- Dribbling after urination
These symptoms can disrupt sleep, cut into your golf game, make long drives uncomfortable, and turn a simple movie night into a stressful experience.
Is BPH the Same as Prostate Cancer?
No, BPH is not cancer, and it does not increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. However, the symptoms of BPH and prostate cancer can overlap. That’s why a proper urologic evaluation is essential, especially if you have ongoing urinary concerns or a family history of prostate cancer.
Treatment Options
Traditional Approaches
Medications (e.g., alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors) may ease symptoms but often come with side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction.
Surgery (e.g., TURP, HoLEP, GreenLight Laser) removes or vaporizes prostate tissue but typically requires a hospital stay, general anesthesia, and longer recovery – with a higher risk of complications like incontinence or erectile dysfunction.
Minimally Invasive Options at UUA
We focus on minimally invasive, outpatient BPH procedures that deliver long-term relief with lower risk, less downtime, and no hospital stay.
Our Treatments Include:
- Rezum™ Water Vapor Therapy – Uses steam to shrink excess prostate tissue in a short, in-clinic procedure.
- iTind™ Therapy – A small temporary implant that reshapes the urethra over 5-7 days before removal.
- Optilume® BPH Catheter System – A drug-coated balloon that widens the urethra and prevents tissue regrowth.
These procedures are well-suited for men who want effective results without invasive surgery or long-term medications.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Explore our BPH Treatment Comparison Chart to see how the different options compare in terms of recovery time, effectiveness, and impact on daily life – so you’re ready for an informed conversation with your urologist.