Do Females Have a Prostate? Here’s What to Know

The short answer is no — females do not have a prostate. But this question comes up so often because the truth is more interesting than a simple no. There is a structure in the female body that is closely related to the prostate, and it has caused a lot of confusion in both medical offices and online forums. Understanding the difference between having a prostate and having prostate-like tissue is where the real clarity lies. Let’s break down what the science actually says, what this tissue does, and why the confusion persists.

Do Females Have a Prostate Gland?

No. Females do not have a prostate gland. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found only in males. It sits below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. Its main job is to produce fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

The confusion comes from a structure called the Skene’s glands. These are two small glands located near the lower end of the urethra in females. They are sometimes called the “female prostate” because they share the same embryonic origin as the male prostate. Both develop from the same tissue in early fetal development. In males, that tissue becomes the prostate. In females, it becomes the Skene’s glands.

So while females do not have a prostate, they do have tissue that is biologically equivalent. This tissue can sometimes cause similar health issues, which is why the question keeps coming up.

What Are Skene’s Glands and What Do They Do?

Skene’s glands are tiny structures about the size of a pea. They sit on either side of the urethra, near its opening. They are connected to the urethra by small ducts.

Their exact function is still not fully understood. Research suggests they produce a fluid that may help lubricate the urethral opening. Some studies also suggest they may play a role in female ejaculation. The fluid released during female ejaculation has been analyzed and found to contain prostate-specific antigen (PSA), the same protein produced by the male prostate. This is strong evidence that Skene’s glands are functionally similar to the prostate.

Current research suggests that Skene’s glands are not just a leftover from development. They appear to have an active role in sexual response and urinary health. But because they are small and not well studied, many doctors still do not talk about them much.

Can Skene’s Glands Cause Health Problems?

Yes, they can. And this is where the question “do females have a prostate” becomes medically relevant. Because Skene’s glands share tissue with the prostate, they can develop some of the same conditions.

One common issue is infection. Skene’s gland infection is called skenitis. It can cause pain near the urethra, discomfort during urination, and pain during sex. It is often misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection because the symptoms are similar.

Cysts can also form in Skene’s glands. These are usually benign but can become uncomfortable if they grow large. In rare cases, Skene’s gland cysts can block the urethra and cause difficulty urinating.

More serious conditions are possible but very rare. There have been case reports of cancer in Skene’s glands. Because these glands produce PSA, elevated PSA levels in females can sometimes signal a problem. This is not a common screening tool, but it is something doctors may check if symptoms suggest it.

What Does the Research Say About the Female Prostate?

The term “female prostate” is not just internet slang. It appears in medical literature. A 2021 review in the journal Sexual Medicine Reviews confirmed that Skene’s glands are anatomically and chemically similar to the male prostate. The review noted that these glands produce PSA and other prostate-specific proteins.

But the research also shows important differences. The female prostate analogue is much smaller. It does not surround the urethra the way the male prostate does. It does not produce the same volume of fluid. And it is not involved in reproduction the way the male prostate is.

Some studies suggest that Skene’s glands may be more active in some women than others. This could explain why some women experience noticeable fluid release during arousal while others do not. As of 2026, there is no standard test to measure Skene’s gland function. Most of what we know comes from small studies and case reports.

Here is a quick comparison of the male prostate and the female Skene’s glands:

Common Misconceptions About the Female Prostate

There is a lot of bad information online about this topic. Here are a few claims that do not hold up to scrutiny:

• Claim: All females have a hidden prostate. False. Females have Skene’s glands, which are similar but not the same. Calling them a prostate is inaccurate and misleading.
• Claim: The G-spot is the female prostate. This is widely claimed, but strong evidence is limited. Some researchers believe the G-spot may be related to Skene’s glands because both are located near the urethra. But the G-spot has not been clearly identified in anatomy studies. It is more likely a cluster of sensitive tissue rather than a single gland.
• Claim: Female ejaculation is urine. This is not supported by research. Studies have found that fluid released during female ejaculation contains PSA and other prostate proteins. It is chemically different from urine. However, some women may release a mix of fluids, so it is not always one or the other.
• Claim: Skene’s glands are useless. This is an older view that has been challenged by newer research. While their exact purpose is not fully understood, they appear to have a functional role in sexual response and possibly urinary health.

What to Avoid When Reading About the Female Prostate

Be careful with sources that claim the female prostate is a cure-all or a hidden key to sexual pleasure. There is no clinical evidence that stimulating Skene’s glands provides any specific health benefit beyond normal sexual response. Some products marketed for “female prostate health” are not backed by research.

Also avoid sources that dismiss Skene’s glands entirely. Some older medical textbooks barely mention them. That does not mean they are unimportant. It just means they have not been studied as much as other structures. The lack of research does not equal lack of function.

If you are experiencing pain near the urethra or discomfort during sex, do not assume it is a Skene’s gland issue. See a doctor. Many conditions cause similar symptoms. A proper diagnosis is important because treatment differs depending on the cause.