Prostate Calcification: Impact on Ejaculation and Sexual Health

Prostate calcification! Does it affect ejaculation?

Last year during a company health check, an ultrasound examination revealed "suspected prostatic calcification of 0.4 cm (recommended serum PSA test)." This year, during another health check, the prostatic calcification increased to 0.85 cm.
In daily life, I have noticed that my urine stream has always been relatively thin and slow, but I have no other symptoms or discomfort (both urinary and sexual functions are normal).
The thin and slow urine stream may be related to an accident I had while cycling in my youth, where I sustained an injury to the area directly below my genitals after hitting the bicycle crossbar.
At that time, there was bleeding from the urethra and slight local swelling, but I only received anti-inflammatory medication and did not have any follow-up or treatment (since then, my urine stream has consistently been thin).
About a year ago, I began to notice a decrease in pleasure during ejaculation, which has recently progressed to a complete lack of sensation.
It feels more like "flowing" rather than "ejaculating." I am unsure if this symptom is related to the prostatic calcification.
Is there a connection between the calcification and the injury I sustained in my youth? What could be the potential causes? What kind of examinations and treatments are necessary? Are there cases where prostatic calcification has led to a lack of sensation during ejaculation? Is there a chance of recovery (restoration of sensation) after treatment? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond amidst your busy schedule!

Shi fen kun huo de ren, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/26

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, prostate calcification is quite common.
Unless it is located near the urethra or is very large, it typically does not cause urinary problems and is unrelated to ejaculation.
Calcification usually indicates tissue fibrosis, which may result from injury, infection, or inflammation.
My recommendations are: 1.
Prostate cancer screening: PSA test.
2.
Special ultrasound: transrectal ultrasound of the prostate.
3.
Cystoscopy if there are any unclear findings.
Feel free to ask further questions for discussion and research.
Online responses should only be considered as references; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/10/26

More Info

Prostate calcification, also known as prostate calcifications or prostatic calcifications, can be a common finding in men, especially as they age. These calcifications can be detected through imaging studies such as ultrasound, and while they are often benign, they can sometimes be associated with other prostate conditions. In your case, the increase in size from 0.4 cm to 0.85 cm over the course of a year warrants further evaluation, especially since you are experiencing changes in urinary and sexual function.

Impact on Ejaculation and Sexual Health
The symptoms you describe, particularly the change in sensation during ejaculation, could potentially be related to the calcifications in your prostate. The prostate gland plays a crucial role in sexual health and ejaculation, as it produces a significant portion of the fluid that makes up semen. Calcifications can sometimes indicate chronic inflammation or previous injury to the prostate, which might affect its function.
Your history of trauma from the bicycle accident could also be relevant. Trauma to the pelvic area can lead to various complications, including scarring or changes in the prostate and surrounding tissues. This could potentially affect the nerves and blood flow involved in sexual arousal and ejaculation, leading to the symptoms you are experiencing.

Possible Causes and Mechanisms
1. Chronic Prostatitis: Chronic inflammation of the prostate can lead to calcifications and might also result in changes in sexual function. Symptoms can include pain, discomfort, and changes in ejaculation.

2. Nerve Damage: The trauma you experienced may have caused nerve damage, which could affect the sensation during ejaculation. The nerves that control ejaculation and sexual pleasure are closely associated with the prostate.

3. Hormonal Changes: While less likely, hormonal imbalances can also affect sexual function. The prostate is influenced by testosterone and other hormones, and any changes in these levels could impact sexual health.

Recommended Evaluations
Given your symptoms and the findings of prostate calcification, it would be prudent to undergo further evaluations:
- PSA Testing: Regular monitoring of your PSA levels is essential, especially since you have a history of prostate calcification. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate issues, including cancer, although benign conditions can also cause increases.

- Urodynamic Studies: These tests can help assess how well your bladder and urethra are functioning, especially since you mentioned changes in urination.

- Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): This imaging can provide more detailed information about the prostate and help assess the nature of the calcifications.

- Consultation with a Urologist: A urologist can provide specialized insight into your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Treatment Options
Treatment for prostate calcification typically depends on the underlying cause. If the calcifications are associated with chronic prostatitis, treatment may include:
- Antibiotics: If an infection is suspected.

- Anti-inflammatory Medications: To reduce inflammation and discomfort.

- Alpha-blockers: These can help relax the muscles around the prostate and bladder neck, improving urinary flow.

For the changes in ejaculation and sexual function, options may include:
- Pelvic Floor Therapy: This can help strengthen the pelvic muscles and improve function.

- Medications: Depending on the specific issues, medications to enhance blood flow or address hormonal imbalances may be considered.

Prognosis
The prognosis for recovery of sensation during ejaculation can vary. Some men report improvement with appropriate treatment, while others may continue to experience changes. The key is to address any underlying conditions and work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and adjust treatment as necessary.

In conclusion, while prostate calcification can be a benign finding, your symptoms warrant further investigation to rule out any serious conditions and to explore potential treatment options. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and to seek specialized care as needed.

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