Penile Pain – What Men Should Know about Pelvic Pain Syndrome

What is pelvic pain syndrome?

While it is well known that older men are likely to experience some degree of prostate enlargement, men as young as their late teens and early twenties may develop a prostate condition known as prostatitis. This disorder can cause severe discomfort which can significantly detract from a man’s quality of life. While some cases may be resolved with antibiotics, others are more difficult to treat, resulting in ongoing pain in the pelvic region, lower abdomen, back and penis. In such cases, chronic prostatitis, or pelvic pain syndrome, may be diagnosed.

While avoiding this uncomfortable issue may not always be possible, understanding the condition and taking the right steps for easing pain and caring for the penis can help to reduce its severity and prevent it from diminishing a man’s quality of life.

Common symptoms of pelvic pain syndrome

Men with prostatitis or pelvic pain syndrome often complain of the following:

• Painful urination;
• Difficulty starting or controlling a urine stream;
• Pain in the lower back or abdomen;
• Pain in the perineal area which can make sitting difficult;
• Pain on walking;
• Severe pain on jumping down from a height;
• Painful ejaculation;
• Penis pain, especially at the tip.

What causes pelvic pain syndrome?

Acute cases of prostatitis are generally caused by a bacterial infection; however, while pelvic pain syndrome may develop following acute prostatitis, the cause of the chronic pain is not well understood. Some researchers have proposed that stress, whether related to emotional issues or physiological problems, may cause the muscles in the area to tighten; when this becomes habitual, chronic pain may be the result; however, this is highly speculative and has not been proven through research.

Men who have chronic pelvic pain may develop anxiety and depression, especially when doctors are unable to determine the cause of their pain or provide an effective solution. Some men may develop erectile issues, and the fear of painful ejaculation can make sex into an ordeal, rather than a pleasure.

How to help reduce pelvic and penile pain related to pelvic pain syndrome

Because the cause of chronic prostatitis is not known, treatment for the condition is centered on relieving the symptoms and improving quality of life. To begin with, men may be put on a long-term regimen of antibiotics, lasting from six to twelve weeks. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help to ease the discomfort. Doctors may also recommend counseling for men to help them develop coping and pain management strategies. In addition, sitting in a warm bath or applying compresses may be effective, at least temporarily.

Certain lifestyle changes are also recommended for men with chronic pelvic pain. These may include exercise and weight loss, as well as the elimination of spicy foods from the diet. Consuming plenty of high-fiber foods and drinking water can help to prevent constipation, which may exacerbate the pain; stool softeners may also be helpful in this respect. Avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol are also advised.

Practical tips for a healthy penis

Aside from easing the ache of pelvic pain syndrome, men with chronic pain can take steps to keep the penis as healthy as possible in order to avoid other complications. Eating right, maintaining an appropriate body weight and quitting smoking can help to reduce pressure and improve blood flow to the area, allowing for healthy oxygenation and nourishment of the penile tissue.

An all-natural penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) made with nutrient-rich ingredients can also help to supply the nerves, skin and blood vessels of the penis with vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants they need to ensure healthy function and fight off disease.