Definition
Pain or inflammation involving the prostate region. Some forms are bacterial; chronic pelvic pain is not necessarily an infection.
Symptoms
Perineal pain, urinary burning or painful ejaculation; fever may accompany acute infection.
How it may be discovered
Sudden fever, recurring infections or pain lasting for months.
When to seek care
Fever with urinary symptoms or retention needs urgent assessment; persistent pain needs review.
Investigations and tests
History, appropriate examination, urine testing and culture; other tests guided by findings.
Reaching a diagnosis
Differentiate documented infection, chronic pelvic pain and other causes.
Treatment options
Antibiotics for bacterial disease; chronic pain may need combined treatments, rehabilitation and psychosexual support. Repeated antibiotics are not routine.
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.