Prostatitis is the name given to the inflammation and swelling of the prostate gland - the small gland located directly behind the bladder in men [1].
In many cases, the cause of prostatitis can go unknown but three of the most common causes include [2]:
- Inflamed urethra
- Bacteria in the urinary tract entering the prostate (chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause prostatitis)
- Nerve damage in the lower urinary tract
Risk factors of prostatitis
Although prostatitis usually tends to occur in men of 50 years of age or younger, it’s important to note that it can affect men of all ages. You’re more likely to get prostatitis if you have had [3]:
- A recent urinary tract infection (UTI)
- A prostate biopsy
- A sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- HIV or AIDS
- A problem with your urinary tract
- Anal sex
See also: Common STD Symptoms In Men: Should You Get Tested?
How do you know if you have prostatitis?
The symptoms and signs which you experience will ultimately depend on the cause, though there are some indicators to keep an eye out for, these include [4]:
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent urination
- Urgent need to urinate
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in the urine
- Pain in the abdomen, groin or lower back
One of the primary risk factors of getting prostatitis includes having a sexually transmitted infection. This is why it’s so important to stay in the know with your sexual health and regularly get checked; this can be done by taking a trip to your doctors office or from home with an at-home lab test.
With LetsGetChecked's range of at-home STI Tests, you don’t need to worry about taking time out of your busy schedule, having to visit a doctor’s waiting room or needing to speak with someone face to face. You will get online results within 5 days, with prescription options available for certain infections if you do test positive.
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