Prostatitis and Sexual Transmission: Risks and Prevention

Prostatitis—inflammation of the prostate gland—can be caused by bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. When prostatitis is due to an STI, the infection can be transmitted to sexual partners through unprotected intercourse. In men, this may cause prostatitis; in women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Reducing Transmission Risk

• Use condoms consistently during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
• Complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics.
• Abstain from sex until treatment is finished and symptoms resolve.
• Notify recent partners so they can be tested and treated.
• Get regular STI screenings.

Non-STI Prostatitis

Many cases of prostatitis are not sexually transmitted (e.g., chronic pelvic pain syndrome, bacterial prostatitis from urinary tract bacteria). These are not contagious. Accurate diagnosis by a healthcare provider is essential for appropriate treatment and counseling.