Definition

Prostatitis is swelling of the prostate gland in men. There are 4 types of prostatitis:

• Acute bacterial prostatitis
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis
• Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
• Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis

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Causes

Cause will depend on the type of prostatitis:

• Acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis—caused by an infection. A bacteria enters the prostate. It often comes from the nearby urinary tract or rectum.
• Chronic pelvic pain syndrome and asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis—causes are not clearly understood.

A cause may not be found in some people.

Risk Factors

Prostatitis is more common in men who use catheters. Other factors that may increase the chances of prostatitis are:

• Sex without the use of barriers like condoms
• Foreskin that does not to fully draw back from the head of the penis— phimosis
• Urethra that has narrowed
• Prostate that has increased in size
• Past urinary tract infections

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the type of prostatitis. Many may not have any problems. Symptoms that do occur may include:

• Need to pee often or often feel urgent need to
• Pain or burning while peeing
• Hard time passing pee
• Lower belly pain or pressure
• Pain in penis, rectum, and area in between
• Lower back pain
• Fever or chills
• Problems getting or keeping erection

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. To help find a cause or rule out other issues the doctor may order:

• Urine tests
• Prostate biopsy —small piece of prostate is removed and sent to lab

Treatment

Treatment steps will be based on type.

Prevention

Steps that may lower the risk of some prostatitis include:

• Practice safe sex. Protect yourself from infections (STIs) by using a condom.
• Empty your bladder as soon the urge happens.

Regular exercise may also help some types of prostatitis.