Chronic prostatitis and infertility: the link and the chances of becoming a father

What is the link between chronic prostatitis and infertility?

Prostate inflammation is one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions in men of reproductive age. This condition can present itself in either an acute or chronic form. In 40% of cases, chronic prostate inflammation can lead to impaired reproductive function and become a serious obstacle to fatherhood.

How does chronic prostatitis develop?

Prostate inflammation, or prostatitis, in men can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection of the prostate tissue. Certain factors increase the risk of inflammation, such as

• unprotected sexual intercourse
• chronic somatic diseases (such as diabetes);
• sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity
• bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse).

The acute form of prostate inflammation is accompanied by pronounced symptoms: increased body temperature, urinary disorders accompanied by painful sensations, erection and ejaculation problems, causing significant discomfort for men.

Chronic prostatitis most often develops due to untimely or inadequate treatment of the acute form of the disease. The peculiarity of chronic prostate inflammation is the vague and imperceptible nature of the clinical symptoms. This often leads patients to ignore their symptoms and self-treat, which ultimately only worsens the problem and can lead to serious complications.

Symptoms of chronic prostatitis

Patients suffering from chronic prostatitis may complain of:

• regular or periodic pain of varying intensity in the scrotum, perineum, anus, and lower back;
• periodic increases in body temperature up to subfebrile values (from 37.1 to 38 °C) during disease flare-ups;
• mucous or purulent discharge from the urethra, which can occur even in the absence of urination;
• decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, painful ejaculation.

Chronic prostatitis can lead to various complications, such as

• frequent cystitis and pyelonephritis;
• persistent decrease in immunity
• increased risk of genitourinary cancer.

Additionally, men suffering from prostate inflammation may develop reproductive disorders. This is due to the spread of the inflammatory process to the testicles, their appendages, seminal vesicles, and tubules, which significantly affects sperm quality and reduces a man's chances of becoming a father.

Diagnosis and treatment of chronic prostatitis

The clinical picture of chronic prostatitis is quite typical, allowing the doctor to quickly suspect the presence of a problem. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor conducts a comprehensive examination that includes the following elements

• a rectal examination of the prostate (necessary to assess the size, shape, and consistency of the prostate, which allows for the identification of inflammation and other pathologies);
• analysis of prostate secretions;
• swabs for sexually transmitted infections;
• general and clinical blood tests;
• bacteriological culture of urine;
• ultrasound examination.

If the patient has suspicions of infertility, a spermogram must also be performed, which allows for the assessment of sperm quality and viability.

Treatment of chronic prostatitis requires a comprehensive approach and includes the following methods:

• antibacterial therapy, prescribed after determining the sensitivity of the pathogen to medications;
• medications to manage pain syndrome
• prostate massage, which improves blood circulation and secretion flow;
• physiotherapy;
• measures to improve immunity, including taking vitamin complexes
• normalization of work and rest, sexual activity, adherence to the principles of a healthy diet, and engaging in suitable physical activity.

Surgical treatment is only used in strict indications when conservative therapy is ineffective or when there is a change in urinary flow that requires surgical intervention.

Chronic prostatitis and infertility

The link between chronic prostatitis and infertility is evident, as prostate inflammation deteriorates sperm quality, reduces sperm motility and viability, significantly decreasing the chances of conception. Prostate inflammation negatively affects sperm quality, leading to reduced motility and viability of sperm. Therefore, it is extremely important for a man to consult a urologist or andrologist at the first signs of suspicion. Timely diagnosis and adequate treatment of chronic prostatitis can prevent the development of dangerous complications, improve quality of life, and preserve reproductive function, giving the man a chance to become a father.

Therefore, as soon as there is the slightest suspicion of prostate inflammation, it is advisable to immediately contact a specialist for diagnosis and therapeutic recommendations. The earlier treatment begins, the higher the probability of avoiding complications and preserving reproductive health.

If you have questions for a specialist, make an appointment at NatuVitro. You can also check the Treatment section of our website to learn more about in vitro fertilization (IVF), including IVF with egg donation and sperm donation.