Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate gland or the surrounding tissues. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder that plays a vital role in male reproductive health by producing seminal fluid. When the prostate becomes inflamed, it can cause a wide range of symptoms that affect urinary and sexual function.

This condition can occur in men of any age, but it is most frequently diagnosed in men under 50. Prostatitis is one of the most common urologic conditions in younger and middle-aged men, leading to millions of doctor visits each year.

Because prostatitis presents differently from person to person, it can be challenging to identify without a proper medical evaluation. Some men experience significant pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, or sexual dysfunction, while others may have little to no discomfort and discover the condition only through routine testing.

Common signs and symptoms of prostatitis may include:

  • Aching or discomfort in the abdomen, groin, pelvis, genitals, or perineum (area between scrotum and anus), often worse at night

  • Cloudy or blood-tinged urine

  • Painful ejaculation

  • Flu-like symptoms in some cases

Prostatitis can be caused by bacterial infection or may occur without an infectious process. It is generally classified into four main types:

  • Acute bacterial prostatitis: The least common but potentially serious form, often presenting with fever, chills, lower back and groin pain, burning urination, and body aches. White blood cells and bacteria are typically found in the urine. Treated with antibiotics for a moderate duration.

  • Chronic bacterial prostatitis: A less common, long-term bacterial infection of the prostate with periods of remission and recurrence. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for a prolonged course.

  • Chronic non-bacterial prostatitis: The most common form, with intermittent symptoms sometimes linked to inflammation in urine, semen, or prostatic fluids. Cause is not well understood.

  • Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis: Inflammation detected in prostatic fluids without symptoms, often discovered during evaluations for infertility or prostate cancer screening.

Your AUCNY urologist may use a variety of diagnostic tools to evaluate prostatitis:

  • Detailed medical history and physical examination, including assessment of urinary and pelvic symptoms, personal and family history, and lifestyle factors

  • Blood tests to detect infection or inflammation

  • Urine tests to identify bacterial infections or chemical changes

  • Imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET scan, bone scan, or chest X-ray) to rule out other conditions

Treatment depends on the type of prostatitis:

  • Bacterial prostatitis: Typically treated with antibiotics. Alpha-blockers may also be prescribed to relax the bladder neck and pelvic muscles.

  • Non-bacterial prostatitis: Symptom management may include prescription medications, warm baths, and dietary modifications.

  • Asymptomatic prostatitis: Usually requires no treatment unless other co-existing medical conditions are present.

Take the Next Step

If you are experiencing pelvic discomfort, urinary changes, or other symptoms of prostatitis, the experienced urologists at AUCNY can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Schedule a consultation today to restore comfort and urinary health.

Take the Next Step

If you are experiencing pelvic discomfort, urinary changes, or other symptoms of prostatitis, the experienced urologists at AUCNY can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Schedule a consultation today to restore comfort and urinary health.