Patient's question:
Does a partner's vaginitis cause a recurrence of prostatitis?How should it be prevented and treated?
Doctor's answer:
Dear Patient:First, it's important to understand what causes vaginal infections in sexual partners. These infections are usually caused by trichomoniasis. Men with prostatitis may also test positive for trichomonads. It's best for sexual partners to seek medical treatment for vaginal infections and to pay attention to hygiene during sexual activity. Avoid engaging in unprotected sex.
Excessive sexual activity can lead to chronic prostatitis and worsen the condition. Some patients might think it's better to abstain from sex altogether. However, this is also incorrect. Abstinence not only does not help in treating chronic prostatitis but can also have the opposite effect.
This issue should be considered from two perspectives. On one hand, when the prostate is inflamed, prostatic fluid contains many bacteria and inflammatory cells. If sexual activity is avoided, the fluid accumulates in the acini and cannot be expelled, allowing bacteria to multiply continuously. Even with effective antibiotics, satisfactory results may not be achieved. During sexual activity, the ejaculation process causes the prostate smooth muscle to contract, expelling prostatic fluid into the urethra, which provides better drainage than prostate massage. On the other hand, if prostatic fluid is not expelled for a long time or ejaculation does not occur regularly, adult males may experience a sense of fullness and a strong urge to empty the contents. If this urge is not satisfied, sexual impulses can lead to penile erection and prostate congestion, worsening symptoms of chronic prostatitis.
Therefore, patients with chronic prostatitis should maintain a moderate level of sexual activity based on their age and physical condition. It should not be too frequent, nor should they abstain. Generally, having intercourse every 7–10 days is ideal. Unmarried young men should also aim to ejaculate every 10 days.