How Does Prostatitis in Partners Affect Women’s Health?

Does a partner with prostatitis affect women?

Hello Doctor: My boyfriend has been sterilized and has undergone basic sexually transmitted infection testing, all of which were negative, so we usually do not use condoms.
Last year, he was diagnosed with prostatitis by a urologist, and after taking antibiotics for over three months, it seems there has been no improvement.
I have started to overthink and feel quite troubled.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
Will a woman be affected? I found information online stating that some say it is not contagious, while others say that inflammatory secretions can cause gynecological inflammation in women.
My understanding is that if the inflammation is caused by bacteria, it can be transmitted; if it is not caused by bacteria, it cannot be transmitted.
Is this correct? Should I consult a gynecologist or a urologist?
2.
Currently, only he is undergoing antibiotic treatment, and I am not receiving simultaneous treatment.
Is there a risk of cross-infection? Thank you very much, doctor, for taking the time to clarify these concerns.

zhen de hen kun huo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/17

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, it is recommended to consult a urologist to evaluate the cause of the infection and whether it is contagious.
This will help determine if simultaneous treatment or prevention is necessary.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2017/01/17

More Info

Prostatitis, particularly when caused by bacterial infections, can indeed have implications for the sexual health of partners, including women. Your concerns are valid, and it's important to understand the nuances of how prostatitis can affect both partners in a sexual relationship.

1. Transmission Risks: Prostatitis itself is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but the bacteria causing bacterial prostatitis can potentially be transmitted through sexual activity. If your boyfriend has a bacterial infection, there is a possibility that the bacteria could be present in his seminal fluid. While the risk of transmission is generally low, it is not zero. If the infection is not properly managed, it could lead to complications for you, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), especially if you are engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse.

Your understanding that only bacterial infections can be transmitted is partially correct. While non-bacterial prostatitis is not contagious, the inflammatory secretions associated with prostatitis may still affect the vaginal flora and lead to irritation or infection in some cases. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider using protection until your boyfriend's condition is fully resolved.

2. Consulting Healthcare Providers: Given the situation, it would be prudent for you to consult with a gynecologist. They can evaluate any symptoms you may be experiencing and conduct necessary tests to rule out infections or other complications. If you have no symptoms, regular check-ups are still a good practice, especially since prostatitis can lead to complications that might affect your reproductive health.

3. Cross-Infection Concerns: Since your boyfriend is undergoing antibiotic treatment for prostatitis, it is essential to monitor your health closely. While you may not be experiencing symptoms, the close proximity of the urinary and reproductive systems means that infections can sometimes spread. If you notice any unusual symptoms such as abnormal discharge, itching, burning during urination, or pelvic pain, you should seek medical attention promptly.

4. Impact on Fertility: In general, prostatitis can affect male fertility due to changes in sperm quality and motility. However, if your boyfriend's condition is managed effectively and he is otherwise healthy, the impact on fertility may be minimal. If you are considering pregnancy, it would be wise to discuss this with both your gynecologist and your boyfriend's urologist to ensure that both of you are in optimal health.

In summary, while prostatitis itself may not directly affect your health, the underlying bacterial infection could pose risks. It is advisable to use protection during sexual activity until your boyfriend's condition is resolved and to consult with a gynecologist for a thorough evaluation. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare providers will help ensure both your health and that of your partner.

Similar Q&A

Can Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Be Affected by Male Partners?

I would like to ask if my recurrent pelvic inflammatory disease could be influenced by my boyfriend, or if it is more likely due to my pre-existing endometriosis that makes me more susceptible to infections. My boyfriend does not have any discomfort or discharge or other symptoms...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: There are many causes for recurrent pelvic inflammatory disease, and sexual activity is one of them. However, males usually exhibit symptoms. If you are very concerned, practicing safe sex is advisable. If a male experiences urinary pain or discharge, he should seek medica...

Understanding Prostate Health: Urine Tests and Sexual Function Concerns

1. If the urine test shows normal levels of red and white blood cells, there is no bacterial infection, and there are no symptoms associated with acute or chronic prostatitis, such as frequent urination, and urination is smooth, can we rule out the possibility of prostatitis? 2....

Dr. Liu Jiaju reply Urology
Based on your description, the likelihood of having prostatitis should be low. However, if you still experience related symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary, including a digital rectal examination and prostate fluid analysis to rule it out. Research indicates that patien...

Understanding Prostate Health: Causes and Prevention of Inflammation

I have never had sexual intercourse, but I would like to know why sexual activity can lead to prostatitis. I masturbate twice a week and have not experienced any issues, but I do consume a lot of sugary drinks, drink very little water, exercise infrequently, sit for long periods,...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Common prostatitis is still a sexually transmitted infection. If there is no sexual activity, the chances are low. However, if you do not drink enough water, are sedentary, or stay up late, you may still experience urinary symptoms (such as urethral discomfort, frequent ur...

Understanding Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis: Symptoms and Impact on Sexual Function

What are the symptoms of chronic non-bacterial prostatitis? Does chronic non-bacterial prostatitis affect sexual function? Thank you.

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology
Possible symptoms include difficulty urinating, urethral pain, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Most individuals will not experience a direct impact on sexual function; however, some may notice an exacerbation of symptoms after erection or sexual activity.