What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis
• Chronic Abacterial Prostatitis
• Chronic Prostatitis with Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

What is Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis is a condition that is characterized by pain around the genital area and urinary symptoms, lasting longer than 3 months
• It is due to an inflammation of the male prostate gland that surrounds the urinary bladder. The  condition is not associated with any bacterial infection and occurs due to an unknown cause
• Associated signs and symptoms of the infection could include lower back pain, painful urination, pain after having sex, and even blood in the urine and semen
• Individuals affected with Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis are usually treated with painkillers, stool softeners, and medications that relax the gland
• The prognosis is generally good with proper diagnosis and intervention, though recurrence of the condition may occur often times

Who gets Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis can occur in men of any age
• However, middle-aged men in the 35-45 year age group are most commonly affected
• There is no geographical, racial, or ethnic preference observed

What are the Risk Factors for Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The following are the risk factors that could lead to Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis:

• Any injury to the genital and urinary area
• Previous episode of prostatitis
• Stress
• Cold climate
• Poor emotional health

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis? (Etiology)

• The exact cause (etiology) of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis is unknown
• It may be due to the interaction between emotional factors, immunity disturbance, hormonal factors, and neurological factors
• The nerves around the genital area are activated and this in turn, leads to inflammation of the prostate gland near the urinary tract 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis?

The signs and symptoms of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis may include the following:

• Pain around the genital area
• Back pain, lower abdominal pain
• Burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urination; increased urgency to urinate
• Pain after letting out the semen; blood in the semen
• Blood in urine
• Decreased desire to have sex
• Tiredness
• Pain during bowel movements
• Joint and muscular pain

How is Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis is made from the signs and symptoms, a thorough physical examination of the individual, with medical history evaluation, and by a few tests. The following tests may be performed:

• Digital rectal examination: A finger is inserted through the rectum to feel the prostate gland. On palpation, it may appear that the prostate is swollen, enlarged, and very painful
• Urine analysis: The presence of white blood cells and red blood cells may be observed
• Urine culture: This analysis may reveal the absence of any bacteria
• Prostatic secretion culture: No bacteria is observed in this test
• Culture of semen: White blood cells are seen and sometimes, the sperm count and mobility is decreased

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis?

The main complication of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis is the impact it has on an individual’s quality of life.

• The condition may affect the individual both sexually and psychologically
• In many cases, recurrence of the condition is observed

How is Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis Treated?

The major goal in the treatment of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis is to reduce pain and discomfort. The following medications may be used:

• Painkillers, such as ibuprofen, to reduce the pain and discomfort
• Antibiotics, if needed
• Medications to relax the prostate gland, such as alpha blocker drugs
• Stool softeners, to prevent constipation

Natural therapies to decrease the pain include:

• Cranberry juice
• Warm baths
• Acupuncture (an ancient practice, where thin needles are inserted into various pressure points)
• Relaxation exercises

How can Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis be Prevented?

• There are no methods currently available to prevent Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis, since the exact cause is not known
• But, decreasing the mental stress by means of relaxation techniques can prevent recurrences in future

What is the Prognosis of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• A prompt diagnosis and treatment of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis can lead to an excellent prognosis
• Most of the individuals respond well to treatment; but, the condition can recur very often

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/sexual-health/