Real Talk: Prostatitis – Bacterial Infection of the Prostate.  Video of a standard prostate exam is below.
 

PictureIt’s time for a grown man conversation pertaining to a sexual health problem that you may not be aware of. It’s called prostatitis (pro-sta-ti-tis) which is a bacterial infection of the prostate gland.

As homosexual and bisexual men, we know that our sexual habits include anal intercourse and anal play involving the penis, fingers or other devices.

This of course is done for sexual pleasure and stimulation of what some consider the male G-spot…The Prostate Gland.
Just like most glands or anything else in our bodies, the prostate can get infected with bacteria. The prostate gland’s surface has many folds and wrinkles. Bacteria from the penis, under finger nails, etc. can enter these folds when in contact where bacteria can enter and reproduce causing infection.


 

PictureThe prostate gland is a walnut sized gland that forms part of the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and encircles the urethra.  The prostate’s primary function is the production of the fluid in semen. It also contains smooth muscles that help expel semen through the urethra during ejaculation.

The term prostatitis is widely used to describe when the prostate becomes infected or inflamed.  Prostatitis is very common among all men between the ages of 20-50 and half of all men will suffer from prostatitis at some point in their lifetime. Prostatitis can also be caused by STDs such as Chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Some common symptoms include; decreased libido or impotence, painful ejaculation, lower back, pelvis, scrotum and rectum pain, fatigue, blood or pus in urine and fever.

There are 3 types of prostatitis…

Acute bacterial prostatitis: Is a sudden bacterial infection marked by inflammation of the prostate. This is the least common form of prostatitis but the symptoms are usually severe. Men with this condition often experience a concurrent acute urinary tract infection (with increased urinary frequency and pain), pain in the pelvis and genital area, as well as fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis: 
Is the result of recurrent urinary tract infections that have entered the prostate gland. The symptoms are similar to acute bacterial prostatitis, but are generally much less severe.

Chronic non-bacterial prostatitis” Is the most common form of the disease, accounting for 90 percent of the cases of prostatitis. The condition is marked by urinary and genital pain for at least three months, but with no bacteria in the urine.

You will need to see a doctor who will perform an examination to determine which type is present. A physical examination of the prostate using a gloved lubricated finger usually should be enough (example video below); however if the type is not determined, cultures and microscopic examination of urine and prostatic secretions before and after prostatic massage may help differentiate what type of infection is present.  If left untreated, prostatitis may lead to more severe, long-term health problems.

Treatment for bacterial prostatitis is a prescription for antibiotics by mouth, usually ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or tetracycline (Achromycin) from 4-6 weeks.  

Other medications may be used to help relax the bladder neck and the muscle fibers where your prostate joins your bladder. This treatment may lessen symptoms, such as painful urination. Examples include tamsulosin (Flomax), terazosin (Hytrin), alfuzosin (Uroxatral) and doxazosin (Cardura). 

Home care includes drinking plenty of fluids, medications for fever and pain control such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Tylenol, etc) and rest.


 
 
Now you know and knowing is half the battle…here’s to a happy healthy prostate!

-Octavius