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Prostatitis

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, a small gland located below the bladder that helps produce semen. It can affect men of all ages and may cause urinary, pelvic, and sexual symptoms.

Common symptoms of prostatitis include pain or burning during urination, frequent or urgent urination, and discomfort in the pelvic area, groin, or lower back. Some men may experience painful ejaculation or erectile and other sexual dysfunction. In cases of acute bacterial prostatitis, flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches may also occur.

Types of prostatitis

Acute bacterial prostatitis

A sudden, severe infection of the prostate caused by bacteria. Symptoms often develop quickly and may include fever, chills, painful urination, pelvic pain, and difficulty urinating. This condition requires prompt medical treatment.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis

A recurring bacterial infection of the prostate. Symptoms are usually milder than the acute form but may persist for months and include urinary discomfort and pelvic pain.

Chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS)

The most common type. It causes ongoing pelvic or genital pain without a clear bacterial infection. Symptoms may last for months and can fluctuate in severity.

Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis

Inflammation of the prostate without noticeable symptoms. It’s often discovered incidentally during testing for other conditions.

Symptoms

  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Frequent or urgent urination
  • Pelvic, groin, or lower back pain
  • Painful ejaculation
  • Erectile or sexual dysfunction
  • Flu-like symptoms (in acute bacterial cases)

Some individuals may have no symptoms at all (asymptomatic). In other cases, pain can travel to nearby areas, such as the testicles.

Causes

  • Bacterial infection
  • Urinary tract infection spreading to the prostate
  • Pelvic muscle dysfunction
  • Nerve inflammation
  • Stress-related factors

In many chronic cases, the exact cause is unclear.

Diagnosis

Your provider may perform:

  • Medical history and physical exam
  • Urine tests
  • Prostate exam
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging (if needed)

If you’re experiencing pain, even if it’s only mild discomfort, get checked.

To learn more, contact a provider or one of our locations — or schedule an appointment.

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