Prostate Issues: FAQs on Health and Recovery

Prostate issues

Hello, Director Hsu.
Thank you very much for your prompt responses, which have helped me better understand my condition.
I have some questions regarding my prostate issues:
1.
Can I engage in sexual activity or masturbation with prostatitis? Will it affect my recovery?
2.
If I have varicocele and only experience mild pain, will it worsen if I don't undergo surgery?
3.
How long should I wait after stopping medication before conducting a urine culture for more accurate results?
4.
When undergoing a urological ultrasound, which organs are typically examined?
5.
I haven't engaged in masturbation or sexual activity for three months.
Two days ago, during masturbation, I experienced sharp pain in the perineum and noticed that my semen was very yellow.
Is this normal?
Thank you, Director.

Jiànkāng zuì zhòngyào, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/13

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

1.
Can prostatitis affect sexual activity or DIY? Will it impact recovery? There is no impact on recovery; however, in some cases, it may infect the partner.
Caution is advised, or using a condom is recommended.
2.
If varicocele only causes mild pain, will it worsen without surgery? Mild pain generally does not require surgery.
Surgery is indicated for two reasons: 1.
Pain 2.
Impact on fertility.
Whether it will worsen varies from person to person.
3.
How long should one stop medication before performing a urine culture for more accurate results? It is recommended to wait about one week.
If urgent, three days is the minimum acceptable duration.
4.
What organs are typically examined during a urological ultrasound? Generally, the kidneys, bladder, and prostate are checked, depending on the actual clinical symptoms.
5.
I haven't engaged in DIY or sexual activity for three months.
The day before yesterday, I experienced a stinging sensation in the perineum during ejaculation, and the semen was very yellow.
Is this normal? This is normal and there is no need for concern; sometimes, there may even be clumpy substances.

Urology Chief, Hsu Wei-Kai, responding on behalf of the Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2005/05/13

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding prostate health. It's important to address these concerns as they can significantly impact your quality of life. Let’s go through your questions one by one.

1. Can I engage in sexual activity or masturbation (DIY) with prostatitis? Will it affect recovery?
Engaging in sexual activity or masturbation when you have prostatitis can be a bit of a double-edged sword. For some men, sexual activity may provide temporary relief from symptoms, as ejaculation can help to clear out the prostate. However, if you are experiencing significant pain or discomfort, it may be best to avoid these activities until you have consulted with your healthcare provider. Overexertion or irritation during these activities could potentially exacerbate your symptoms and hinder recovery. Always listen to your body and consult with your doctor for personalized advice.

2. If I have a varicocele and it only causes mild pain, will it worsen if I don’t have surgery?
Varicoceles can sometimes worsen over time, especially if they are causing symptoms. While mild pain may not seem concerning, it’s essential to monitor the situation. If left untreated, varicoceles can lead to complications such as infertility or more severe discomfort. If you are experiencing any changes in symptoms or if the pain increases, it would be wise to consult a urologist for further evaluation and to discuss potential treatment options.

3. How long should I wait after stopping medication before doing a urine culture for accurate results?
Generally, it is recommended to wait at least 48 to 72 hours after stopping antibiotics before performing a urine culture. This waiting period allows any remaining antibiotic effects to diminish, which can help ensure that the culture accurately reflects any existing bacterial infection. However, your healthcare provider may have specific recommendations based on your individual situation, so it’s best to follow their guidance.

4. What organs are typically examined during a urological ultrasound?
A urological ultrasound typically examines several key areas, including the kidneys, bladder, prostate, and sometimes the testicles. The ultrasound can help identify abnormalities such as cysts, tumors, or issues with blood flow. It is a non-invasive procedure that provides valuable information about the health of these organs and can assist in diagnosing various urological conditions.

5. I haven’t engaged in sexual activity or masturbation for three months, and I experienced sharp pain in the perineum during ejaculation, with yellowish semen. Is this normal?
Experiencing sharp pain in the perineum during ejaculation, especially after a period of abstinence, is not uncommon but should not be ignored. The yellowish color of the semen could indicate several things, including the presence of infection or simply the concentration of the semen due to infrequent ejaculation. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues, such as prostatitis or other infections, and to discuss your symptoms in detail.

In summary, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms and treatment options. Prostate health can be complex, and individual experiences vary widely. Regular check-ups and being proactive about your health can lead to better outcomes. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for more personalized advice. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you the best on your path to recovery!

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