Is prostate massage good for you?
This technique has been used since the late 19th century as a therapeutic method to treat prostatitis. Although "prostrate milking" is commonly associated with se-xual pleasure (self or se-xual intercourse), can help alleviate prostatitis symptoms, such as pain, discomfort, and difficulty urinating. In addition, it may also help to improve blood flow to the prostate gland, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
During the massage, pressure is applied to the prostate gland, which can stimulate the release of prostate fluid, a thin, milky substance from prostate ducts. This fluid contains essential components such as enzymes, proteins, and hormones, crucial in male fertility and reproductive health.
What is the difference between prostate milking and prostate massage?
The terms "prostate milking" and "prostate massage" are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences in their connotations. So, while both terms refer to the manipulation of the prostate gland, "prostate milking" has a se-xual connotation (one can use prostate massager) or prostate play, while "prostate massage" is more broadly used in medicine.
Can prostate massage treat impotence?
There is limited scientific evidence to suggest that prostate milking can help treat erectile dysfunction.
While the prostate gland is involved in male se-xual function, including the production of seminal fluid and the contraction of the prostate during ejaculation, the causes of erectile dysfunction are complex and can include physical and psychological factors.
Prostate milking may help to increase blood flow to the prostate gland and improve its overall health, but its effects on erectile dysfunction are not well-established
Can prostatic massage help to treat chronic prostatitis
Prostatitis, inflammation or infection of the prostate gland can cause symptoms such as pain, painful ejaculation, discomfort, and difficulty urinating.
Prostate massage therapy, has been used for many years as a treatment for prostatitis.
While it is not a mainstream treatment option, some healthcare professionals still use prostate massages to improve symptoms.
Some evidence suggests that repetitive prostatic massage therapy can be an effective treatment for certain types of prostatitis. In particular, chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a type of prostatitis that can be challenging to treat with traditional methods.
How is prostate massage therapy performed?
Massaging the prostate to address prostatitis is typically performed by a medical professional, such as a urologist or a trained therapist. During the massage, the healthcare provider inserts a lubricated finger into the rectum and gently massages the prostate gland, applying pressure to the affected area.
How often should prostate massages be done?
The massage is typically performed for several minutes, and the patient may experience a feeling of relief or a need to urinate during the massage.
This is often performed three times per week in the first month.
How does regular prostate massage treat prostatitis?
Prostate massage can help relieve prostatitis symptoms by promoting drainage of accumulated fluid in the prostate gland, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow to the affected area.
Theorised health benefits include relaxation of pelvic muscles; an inflamed prostate can cause tension and spasm in the pelvic floor muscles, contributing to pain and discomfort.
Other benefits of prostate stimulation include boosting the immune system at the prostate and pelvic area level, which can help fight off infection and promote healing, combating chronic refractory prostatitis.
Does everyone with prostatitis benefit from regular prostate massages?
It is essential to note that prostate massage is inappropriate for all individuals with prostatitis. In some cases, prostate massage may be offered to be performed under general anaesthetic. Prostate massage risks and complications are very low if done by experienced healthcare providers.
Since the 1980's prostate massage has lost ground and is not mainstream treatment, it may have a role in difficult CPPS or chronic prostatitis as symptom relief. However, peer-reviewed studies have failed to show prostate massage as an effective therapy.
What does NICE say about prostate massage?
NICE, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, is a UK-based organisation that provides guidance and recommendations on healthcare practices and interventions.
As of the latest review in 2019, NICE does not recommend prostate massage as a routine treatment for prostate inflammation to alleviate symptoms. This is based on a review of the available evidence, which suggests that there is limited evidence of the effectiveness of prostate massage as a treatment for prostatitis.
However, NICE does acknowledge that some men may find prostate massage helpful for relieving their symptoms of prostate problems and that it may be considered a treatment option for certain patients who have not responded to other treatments. In such cases, NICE recommends that a trained healthcare professional only perform prostate massage and that it should be done cautiously and only after a thorough evaluation of the patient's circumstances.
Can prostate massage help with an enlarged prostate?
The male prostate is a walnut-sized gland. However, as men age, they experience prostate enlargement. An enlarged prostate leads to lower urinary tract symptoms affecting the urine flow and emptying of the bladder.
In the case of benign prostate enlargement, prostate massage was thought to temporarily relieve symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty urinating. This is not true, and there is no role of prostate massage to relieve symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
Is there a role of prostate stimulation in the prevention of prostate cancer?
Prostate massage plays NO role in preventing prostate cancer.
Prostate massage plays NO role in treating or managing prostate cancer.
When is it not recommended to have a prostate massage?
There are certain situations in which massaging the prostate may not be advisable. For instance:
Individuals with certain prostate conditions like acute bacterial prostatitis should avoid prostate massage. It could aggravate the inflammation and spread bacteria to other parts of the urinary tract or bloodstream.
Those with fissures or haemorrhoids are also advised against prostate massage, as it can cause bleeding, exacerbate severe pain and increase the risk of bacterial infection.
People who have been diagnosed with or are suspected of having prostate cancer should not undergo prostate massage.
