Opening Hours
Mon-Fri | : 9:00am - 1:00pm 2:00pm - 5:00pm |
Sat | : 9:00am - 12:00pm |
Sun/PH | : Closed |
Mon-Fri :
9:00am - 1:00pm
2:00pm - 5:00pm
2:00pm - 5:00pm
Sat :
9:00am - 12:00pm
Sun/PH :
Closed
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Our Urologist
Dr Michael Wong
Dr Michael Wong is a USA-fellowship trained senior urologist with an exceptional international standing, having received some of the highest recognitions across three continents.
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Restore Your Urological Health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland. Symptoms and treatment for prostatitis vary greatly depending on its cause and type. Possible treatment options include antibiotics, pain relievers, and specialised exercises.
Medically reviewed by Dr Michael Wong, Medical Director & Senior Consultant Urologist
FAMS (Urology), FICS (USA), FRCS (Edinburgh), M Med (Surgery), MBBS (S’pore)
What Is Prostatitis?
Prostatitis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the prostate gland, sometimes including the surrounding areas. The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system. Its main function is to produce seminal fluid, a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm cells. The muscles in the prostate gland also help to propel semen out of the urethra during ejaculation.
Prostatitis is one of the most common urinary tract issues among men in Singapore, especially those younger than 50. In most cases, prostatitis occurs as a result of a bacterial infection.
Common Types and Symptoms of Prostatitis
There are four main types of prostatitis, each with varying symptoms and causes.
Acute Bacterial Prostatitis
This is the least common but most severe type of prostatitis. It is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications. Acute bacterial prostatitis is caused by a bacterial infection and comes on suddenly with intense symptoms like:
Difficulty urinating (painful or blocked)
Frequent urination
Burning sensation during urination
Fever and chills
Lower back pain
Pain in the genitals
Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis
This is a recurring bacterial infection but with milder symptoms compared to acute bacterial prostatitis. However, chronic bacterial prostatitis is harder to treat as the bacteria can hide in the prostate gland, making it difficult for antibiotics to reach them. Its symptoms can include:
Burning urination
Frequent urination
Pelvic pain
Pain in the genitals
Chronic Prostatitis
(Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome)
This is the most common type of prostatitis, but the exact cause is unknown. Individuals with chronic prostatitis experience chronic pelvic pain lasting for 3 or more months and other symptoms like:
Pain in the genitals, lower back, or abdomen
Burning urination
Frequent urination
Difficulty urinating
Pain during ejaculation
Weak or interrupted urine stream
Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis
Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis is a stealthy type of prostatitis. Men with this condition have inflammation in the prostate but experience no symptoms. It is often discovered incidentally during tests for other conditions and may not require treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors for Prostatitis
Acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis are caused by bacteria entering the prostate, possibly from the urethra or other parts of the urinary system. The cause of chronic prostatitis, on the other hand, is still unknown. However, research generally suggests that it could result from other microorganisms, irregular hormone activity, nerve damage in the pelvic area, or stress. Other possible causes also include chemicals in urine irritating the prostate, as well as the immune system’s response to a previous urinary tract infection (UTI).
Risk factors for developing prostatitis include:
Frequent urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder infection
HIV infection or AIDS
Injury to the perineum (area between scrotum and anus)
Abnormal urinary tract structure
Having an enlarged prostate
Having had prostatitis before
Current use of a urinary catheter
If you have any symptoms of prostatitis, we can help to confirm your diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.
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How Is Prostatitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing prostatitis involves a combination of approaches to determine its cause and rule out other conditions. Initially, the doctor will review the patient’s medical history and symptoms. The doctor may also perform some of the following tests:
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
Here, the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to check the prostate for any swelling or tenderness.
Urine and Semen Analysis
Urine and/or semen samples are taken to check for signs of bacterial infections and evaluate the white blood cells.
Blood Test
This involves taking blood samples to detect the presence of infection or other prostate problems.
Urodynamic Tests
This involves a variety of tests to evaluate how well the bladder and urethra holds and releases urine.
Cystoscopy
This test utilises a thin, sterile tube called a cystoscope to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra to check for inflammation.
Transrectal Ultrasound
A small, handheld device called a transducer is inserted into the rectum to create images of the prostate gland. Sometimes, a biopsy may be taken.
Prostatic Specimen Test
In some cases, a sample of prostatic fluid might be collected to analyse for bacteria or inflammation.
Prostatitis Treatments in Singapore
The treatment for prostatitis depends on the specific type:
Acute Bacterial Prostatitis
Prompt treatment with antibiotics is required. Initially, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for 2 weeks, but may be given longer for up to 6–8 weeks in cases of recurrence. In severe cases, the patient may also be admitted to the hospital and be given intravenous (IV) antibiotics, followed by oral antibiotics for 2-4 weeks.
Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis (CBP)
Similar to acute bacterial prostatitis, doctors also prescribed antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. However, the duration of treatment may last up to 4–12 weeks. In some cases, low-dose antibiotics may also be given for up to 6 months to prevent recurrence.
Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Since the exact cause is unknown, there is no single cure for chronic prostatitis. The goal of treatment is usually to relieve symptoms. Treatment may include pain relievers or alpha-blockers to relax the prostate muscles and specialised exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles and reduce pain.
Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis
As it causes no symptoms, asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis often does not require treatment. However, the doctor may recommend monitoring if necessary.
When to Seek Medical Care
Acute bacterial prostatitis, if left untreated, can cause sepsis which is a life-threatening complication. Thus, immediate treatment is required to effectively treat the infection. If you experience any symptoms related to prostatitis, seek medical attention as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment course.
Consult a urologist if you experience symptoms like:
Blood in your urine or semen
Sudden and frequent urges to urinate
Difficulty and pain during urination
Severe pain or discomfort in your genitals
FAQs About Prostatitis
Will prostatitis go away on its own?
Prostatitis usually does not go away on its own and requires medical treatment. Consult a urologist for proper diagnosis and treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
How can I prevent prostatitis?
While prostatitis cannot be entirely prevented, you may lower your risk by practising good hygiene, staying active, avoiding holding urine for long periods, and staying hydrated to flush out bacteria.
How much does prostatitis treatment cost in Singapore?
The cost of treating prostatitis in Singapore varies based on its type. Other factors include doctor’s fee, facility (public or private), and individual insurance coverage. For a more detailed and tailored information, contact our clinic at +65 6838 1212 today.
Let us help you
Restore your urological health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
Office
Location
Location
3 Mount Elizabeth Road, #10-09,
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
Contact
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Number
| Tel | |
| Tel | |
| Fax | : (65) 6838 1216 |
| 24-hour answering service |
Email
Address
Address
Opening
Hours
Hours
Mon-Fri | : 9:00am - 1:00pm 2:00pm - 5:00pm |
Sat | : 9:00am - 12:00pm |
Sun/PH | : Closed |