Pain at the Base of the Penis: Causes and Treatment Options

Pain at the base of the penis?

Hello, I started treatment for frequent urination after sexual intercourse on December 22nd last year.
During the treatment process, I experienced symptoms such as difficulty urinating, painful ejaculation, penile erection pain, occasional pain or heat at the base of the penis, and bladder discomfort.
After undergoing X-rays, urinalysis, blood tests, and ultrasound examinations at the hospital, it was found that my prostate was 28 grams or centimeters in size.
Recently, the doctor informed me that I have acute prostatitis, and after antibiotic treatment, the previous doctor reviewed my blood and urine test results and said they were normal.
Today, after reviewing my ultrasound results, the doctor mentioned that there are no stones and noted that most of my symptoms have improved, stating that I no longer need treatment.
However, I still occasionally experience pain at the base of the penis and difficulty urinating, which have not resolved.
Could you please tell me what might be wrong? Am I just supposed to let these symptoms continue?

A Long, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/14

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Although the doctor has informed you that there is no inflammation detected, it does not necessarily mean that your prostate is completely healthy.
This could be a source of your occasional discomfort.
A healthy prostate is supported by overall bodily health.
To improve pelvic circulation, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, stay well-hydrated, and urinate frequently.
Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through exercises such as Kegel exercises or squats can also be beneficial; you can find various exercise routines on YouTube.
Additionally, certain dietary choices can support prostate health, such as foods rich in zinc, including pumpkin seeds, seafood, shiitake mushrooms, and cooked tomatoes.
You can search online for more information.

Reply Date: 2020/03/14

More Info

Understanding pain at the base of the penis can be complex, especially when it is associated with symptoms like frequent urination, painful ejaculation, and discomfort during erections. Based on your description, it seems you have been diagnosed with acute prostatitis, which is an inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause a range of urinary and sexual symptoms.

Causes of Pain at the Base of the Penis
1. Prostatitis: This is the most likely cause of your symptoms. Acute prostatitis can result from bacterial infections or other factors, leading to inflammation and swelling of the prostate. Symptoms can include pain in the pelvic area, painful urination, and discomfort during sexual activity.

2. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Sometimes, the muscles in the pelvic floor can become tense or dysfunctional, leading to pain in the genital area, including the base of the penis. This can occur independently or as a result of prostatitis.

3. Nerve Irritation or Damage: Conditions that affect the nerves in the pelvic region can also lead to pain. This could be due to inflammation, injury, or other underlying conditions.

4. Other Urological Conditions: Conditions such as bladder infections, urethritis, or even issues related to the testicles can cause referred pain to the base of the penis.

Treatment Options
1. Continued Antibiotic Therapy: Since you have been diagnosed with acute prostatitis, continuing the prescribed antibiotic treatment is crucial. If symptoms persist, your doctor may consider a longer course of antibiotics or a different antibiotic based on culture results.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

3. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: If pelvic floor dysfunction is suspected, seeing a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic health can be beneficial. They can provide exercises and techniques to help relax and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Staying hydrated, avoiding irritants such as caffeine and alcohol, and practicing good urinary habits can help alleviate some symptoms. Regular exercise and stress management techniques may also be beneficial.

5. Follow-Up with a Urologist: Since your symptoms have not fully resolved, it may be wise to follow up with a urologist. They can perform further evaluations, such as additional imaging or tests, to rule out other potential issues and provide more targeted treatment options.

6. Consideration of Chronic Prostatitis: If your symptoms persist beyond the acute phase, you may be dealing with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), which can require a different approach to treatment, including lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and possibly medications to manage chronic pain.

Conclusion
It is important not to ignore ongoing symptoms, especially if they affect your quality of life. While some improvement is a positive sign, persistent pain at the base of the penis and urinary difficulties warrant further evaluation and possibly a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will ensure that you receive appropriate care and management for your condition.

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