Let’s talk about your prostate. That walnut-sized gland hanging out below your bladder isn’t just there for decoration. It plays a starring role in semen production and overall sexual health. Yet, like that one roommate who never pays rent, it can cause some serious issues when it goes rogue.

We’re talking about prostate cancer. It’s one of the most common cancers in people with prostates, and while the survival rate is high when caught early, ignoring the warning signs is like hitting snooze on a fire alarm.

This isn’t a scare-you-straight PSA. Think of it as your Popstar-approved guide to spotting the early signs of prostate cancer. Let’s get into the top 5 symptoms you should know.

If you’re suddenly spending more time at the urinal than on Instagram, your bladder might be trying to tell you something. Urinary changes can sneak up in a few ways:

• A weak stream that feels more like a lazy sprinkler than a power hose

• Difficulty starting or stopping your flow

• Feeling like you need to pee 24/7, even right after you’ve gone

• Burning or discomfort while peeing

Sure, aging can also mess with your plumbing, but persistent changes are worth a chat with your doctor. Don’t just blame it on your caffeine habit.

Here’s a tip: your fluids shouldn’t look like a horror movie. Blood in your urine or semen is a serious warning sign.

It might be a small streak or a noticeable change in color, but either way, it’s not something to brush off as a “weird one-time thing”. Even if it doesn’t hurt, it’s your body sending an SOS.

Let’s be real. Bedroom performance anxiety is normal from time to time. But when your erections go from rock-solid to Jell-O pudding cups with no clear explanation, it might be time to pay attention.

Prostate issues can mess with the nerves and blood flow that keep things working below the belt. If it’s happening more often than not, and you’ve ruled out stress, alcohol, or that mediocre hinge date, check in with your doctor.

And if you’re already managing erectile dysfunction, products like Popstar Delay Spray can help keep your sex life fun while you figure out the medical side.

If you’re feeling random aches that don’t come from last night’s workout, listen up. Pelvic pain is a common red flag, especially if it’s ongoing. In some cases, pain may show up in the hips, back, or thighs if the cancer has spread to the bones.

Sure, you can tweak your back lifting Amazon boxes wrong, but if the pain doesn’t fade, don’t write it off. Your body keeps the receipts.

Sometimes things lurk quietly without obvious signs until it’s further along. That’s when more advanced symptoms can show up, including:

• Sudden weight loss

• Fatigue that won’t quit

• Swelling in the legs

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Not exactly the fun kind of surprise. This is why regular check-ups matter.

Not every prostate problem is cancer. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is basically a fancy way of saying your prostate got swole but not in a sexy way. It can cause a weak stream and other annoying symptoms.

The difference between BPH and prostate cancer? BPH is non-cancerous and more about inconvenience, while cancer involves abnormal cell growth that can spread if untreated. Only your doctor can tell the difference, so don’t play guessing games.

Now for the fun part: preventative checks.

• PSA test: a simple blood test that checks for elevated prostate-specific antigen levels. High numbers can point to trouble.

• Digital rectal exam: yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. A doctor checks your prostate physically. It’s quick, not nearly as awkward as you think, and could save your life.

Regular health care visits are one of the easiest ways to catch problems before they become full-blown emergencies. Seeing your doctor isn’t just for when something feels off—it’s about staying ahead of the game. Routine check-ups can help spot early warning signs of issues like prostate cancer, monitor any changes over time, and give you a chance to ask the awkward questions you’ve been Googling at 2 a.m. Staying on top of your health isn’t a chore, it’s a power move.

Your prostate may be small, but it has a big impact on your health and sex life. Ignoring symptoms is like ignoring 47 unread texts from your ex — eventually, it’ll come back to bite you.

Stay aware, schedule regular screenings, and don’t be embarrassed to bring up symptoms with your doctor. Think of it as an investment in more years of good sex, fewer bathroom sprints, and overall peace of mind.