Prostate infection

What is it?

A prostate infection, prostate inflammation or prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland that produces a number of excipients that are added to the sperm cells during ejaculation.

Prostatitis can occur at any age, but the problem is most common among young and middle-aged men. Although it can be an unpleasant condition to live with, it very rarely poses a dangerous health problem. If you suffer from prostatitis, this does not mean, for example, that you have a greater predisposition for prostate cancer.

In addition to bacterial infections, prostatitis can also be caused by inflammation due to tension in nearby muscles or problems in nearby nerves.

Symptoms

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or genital area
• Urinary symptoms, such as a burning sensation while urinating or more frequent peeing
• Sexual symptoms such as pain during ejaculation

Diagnosis

• Painful prostate on rectal examination
• Urine analysis
• Transrectal ultrasound

Treatment

• Antibiotics in case of prostate infection
• Pain relief
• A bladder probe is sometimes necessary

Latest publication date: 15/05/2024
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip