Frequent Urination and Nocturia: Is Prostate Enlargement the Cause?

Frequent urination and nocturia?

I have been experiencing frequent urination lately, often feeling the need to go less than an hour after using the restroom, with the volume sometimes being less than 100cc.
I urinate at least 12 to 14 times a day and wake up at least twice at night to use the bathroom.
When I lie down, I feel an increased urge to urinate, especially if I am feeling anxious.
Recently, I read a news article about a man who masturbated five times a day, which led to prostate enlargement.
I have been masturbating 2 to 3 times a day for several years.
Could you please advise me if my frequent urination and nocturia could be related to prostate enlargement? Thank you.

Haha, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/04/17

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology

Hello! 1.
You are still too young for masturbation to cause prostate enlargement.
2.
However, masturbating 2-3 times a day is indeed excessive; don't you have anything else to do? 3.
If possible, you should consider changing this habit.
4.
Frequent urination may also be related to personality, and the stimulation of the prostate from masturbation could be a factor.
If reducing the frequency of masturbation does not lead to improvement, you should seek consultation from a urologist.

Reply Date: 2014/04/17

More Info

Frequent urination, or polyuria, and nocturia (waking up at night to urinate) can be distressing symptoms that significantly impact quality of life. Understanding the underlying causes of these symptoms is crucial for effective management. In your case, you are concerned about whether prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) could be contributing to your frequent urination and nocturia.

Prostate enlargement is indeed a common cause of urinary symptoms in men, particularly as they age. The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine exits the body. When the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, leading to various urinary issues, including increased frequency of urination, urgency, and difficulty starting or stopping urination. This compression can also lead to incomplete bladder emptying, which may explain why you feel the need to urinate frequently, even if the volume is low.

However, it is essential to consider other potential causes of your symptoms. Conditions such as overactive bladder (OAB), urinary tract infections (UTIs), diabetes, and neurological disorders can also lead to increased urinary frequency and urgency. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these symptoms, as you mentioned feeling more urgency when you are tense.
In your case, the fact that you are experiencing nocturia and frequent daytime urination suggests that a thorough evaluation is necessary. A urologist can perform a detailed assessment, which may include:
1. Urinalysis: To check for signs of infection or other abnormalities.

2. Post-void residual measurement: To determine how much urine remains in the bladder after urination.

3. Urodynamic studies: These tests measure how well the bladder and urethra are storing and releasing urine.

4. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: To rule out prostate cancer, especially if there are concerns about prostate enlargement.

5. Imaging studies: Such as an ultrasound, to visualize the bladder and prostate.

Regarding your concern about masturbation and its potential link to prostate enlargement, current medical literature does not support the idea that frequent ejaculation causes prostate enlargement. In fact, some studies suggest that regular ejaculation may have protective effects against prostate issues. However, excessive sexual activity can lead to temporary discomfort or increased sensitivity in the pelvic region, which might contribute to the perception of urgency.

If your symptoms persist, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider who specializes in urology. They can help determine the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include lifestyle modifications, medications, or other interventions depending on the underlying cause.

In summary, while prostate enlargement could be a contributing factor to your frequent urination and nocturia, it is essential to consider other potential causes and undergo a comprehensive evaluation. Addressing these symptoms early can help improve your quality of life and prevent further complications.

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