What Is Prostatitis? Symptoms and Treatments

Prostatitis is a common but often misunderstood condition that affects the prostate gland. It can cause pain, urinary problems and sexual discomfort, and symptoms may develop suddenly or gradually over time.

While prostatitis can affect men of any age, it’s particularly common in men over 50. The good news is that most cases are manageable, especially once properly diagnosed.

In this guide, we’ll explain what prostatitis is, the different types, common symptoms, possible causes, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment options available.

Prostatitis Symptoms

Prostatitis symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some men experience mild discomfort, while others develop ongoing or intense pain.

Common prostatitis symptoms include:

• Pain or discomfort in the pelvis, lower abdomen, lower back or perineum
• Painful urination or a burning sensation when peeing
• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or stopping urine flow
• Penis pain or testicular discomfort
• Painful ejaculation or pain during sex
• A feeling of pressure or soreness in the prostate area

Symptoms may appear gradually, particularly in chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS), making the condition harder to recognise early on.

The Different Types Of Prostatitis

There are four main types of prostatitis, each with different causes and treatment approaches.

Acute Bacterial Prostatitis

This is the least common but most severe form. It’s caused by a bacterial infection and develops suddenly.

Symptoms often include:

• Severe pelvic or prostate pain
• Fever, chills and flu-like symptoms
• Painful or difficult urination

This type requires urgent medical treatment, usually with antibiotics.

Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis

Chronic bacterial prostatitis is caused by a recurring bacterial infection of the prostate.

Symptoms may be milder than the acute form but tend to persist or return over time. Urinary infections are common, and long-term antibiotics are often needed.

Chronic Prostatitis / Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)

CPPS is the most common type of prostatitis and the most complex. There’s usually no clear bacterial infection. Symptoms include:

• Ongoing pelvic pain
• Painful ejaculation
• Urinary symptoms

CPPS can last for months or years and often requires a combination of treatments.

Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis

This type causes no noticeable symptoms and is usually found incidentally during tests for other prostate conditions. It often doesn’t require treatment.

What Causes prostatitis?

The causes of prostatitis depend on the type, and in many cases, the exact cause isn’t clear.

Possible causes include:

• Bacterial infections, particularly for acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis
• Previous urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Prostate irritation or inflammation
• Nerve damage or pelvic floor dysfunction
• Stress or immune system responses

Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing prostatitis, including prostate enlargement, previous catheter use, dehydration, prolonged sitting and pelvic trauma.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have Prostatitis?

If you’re experiencing persistent prostate pain, pelvic pain or urinary problems, it’s important to see your GP.

Your doctor will usually:

• Ask about your symptoms and medical history
• Perform a physical examination, which may include a digital rectal exam
• Arrange further tests if needed

Tests may include:

• Urine analysis
• Blood tests
• Semen tests
• Ultrasound or MRI imaging
• Cystoscopy (in some cases)
• Urodynamic testing to assess bladder function

You may be referred to a urologist for specialist assessment.

How Is Prostatitis Treated?

Prostatitis treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition.

• Bacterial prostatitis is usually treated with antibiotics, sometimes over several weeks
• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed
• Alpha-blockers can help relax prostate muscles and improve urine flow
• Chronic prostatitis and CPPS often require a multi-approach treatment plan

Nonbacterial prostatitis may not always need medical treatment, but symptom management is key.

Is There Anything I Can Do To Help With Prostatitis?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent prostatitis, but certain strategies may help manage symptoms — particularly in chronic cases.

Some men find relief from:

• Staying well hydrated
• Avoiding alcohol and caffeine if symptoms worsen
• Stress reduction and relaxation techniques

For ongoing prostate or pelvic pain, specialist devices may offer additional support. External prostate massage tools, such as the Prostate Cradle, are designed to help relieve discomfort associated with prostatitis and CPPS by supporting blood flow and muscle relaxation.

You may also find helpful information in:

• Prostate conditions
• Pelvic pain in men

What Complications Can Prostatitis Have?

If left untreated, prostatitis can sometimes lead to complications, including:

• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Acute urinary retention
• Prostatic abscess (rare)
• Sexual dysfunction
• Ongoing pelvic pain
• Emotional distress or anxiety

Importantly, prostatitis is not linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer, although symptoms can overlap with other prostate conditions — which is why medical assessment is important.

Take Prostate Pain Seriously

Prostatitis can be uncomfortable, frustrating and disruptive, but it’s also treatable. The key is recognising symptoms early and seeking medical advice rather than suffering in silence.

With the right diagnosis, treatment and support, most men can manage prostatitis effectively and protect their long-term prostate health.