Bacterial prostatitis: what to know

The prostate sits below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra. Infection and inflammation there can make urine flow difficult and can cause burning, urgency, frequent urination, or pain in the pelvis, lower back, or area between the genitals and anus. Fever, chills, and feeling unwell suggest a more active infection. Bacteria may reach the prostate from the urinary tract, but urinary symptoms can have other causes, so an assessment is needed.

Arrange a GP consultation promptly if urinary symptoms come with fever, pelvic pain, or feeling ill. The clinician may ask about symptoms, examine you, and arrange urine testing; treatment is selected according to the suspected infection and your health. If antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Drink fluids if safe for you, rest, and avoid delaying urination. Do not use someone else’s antibiotics.

Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine, have severe worsening pain, repeated vomiting, shaking chills, confusion, faintness, or difficulty staying awake. A prostate infection can spread beyond the urinary system and may lead to sepsis. Get prompt advice if symptoms are worsening despite treatment or if you develop a high fever. Inability to urinate is an emergency because the bladder may become dangerously overfilled.

Could my symptoms be bacterial prostatitis or a urinary tract infection? Do I need a urine test? Which treatment is appropriate, and when should symptoms begin to improve? What should I do if urine flow stops?