Acute bacterial prostatitis is an acute infection of the prostate gland that causes pelvic pain and urinary tract symptoms, such as dysuria, urinary frequency, and urinary retention, and may lead to systemic symptoms, such as fevers, chills, nausea, emesis, and malaise.

Is bacterial prostatitis serious?

Bacterial prostate infections can spread, so anyone with symptoms of an infection should seek medical attention as soon as possible. To diagnose prostatitis, a doctor will usually begin by taking the person's medical history. They may also perform a rectal exam.

How do you get a bacterial prostate infection?

Bacterial prostatitis is caused by a bacterial infection in the prostate. Bacteria can get into the prostate when infected urine flows backwards from the urethra. A sex partner can't "catch" this type of infection. Bacteria can be found in urine, prostate fluid or blood tests.