Although epididymitis is a common male disease that can be treated with antibiotics, diuretics, and anti-inflammatory drugs, many patients still worry that this disease will affect other aspects of their body, with the main concern being whether it will affect the patient’s sex life. So can patients with epididymitis have sex? Here’s a detailed explanation.
What is epididymitis
The epididymis is a structure located above the testicle, playing an important role in male fertility. When the epididymis becomes infected or inflamed, it leads to epididymitis. Common symptoms include swelling of the testicle, pain, burning sensation at the urethral opening, etc. Epididymitis is usually caused by bacterial infection but can also be caused by urethral infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
Can patients with epididymitis have sex
The relationship between sex and epididymitis depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment. If the patient’s condition is mild with no severe pain or discomfort, and the doctor believes that sexual activity won’t worsen the infection or cause complications, then usually patients can continue to have sex. However, to ensure safety, it’s best to clean the genitalia before sex and use condoms to reduce the risk of infection. If the patient’s condition is severe, it’s advisable to abstain from sex to avoid worsening symptoms or complications until recovery.
Impact of epididymitis on sex life
When patients with epididymitis experience significant pain and discomfort, they may encounter the following issues during sex:
1. Ejaculation disorders
Pain and swelling of the testicle caused by epididymitis may lead to ejaculation disorders. Even if patients can ejaculate normally, it may worsen the discomfort, resulting in an unpleasant or discordant sexual experience.
2. Decreased libido
Local pain and discomfort can affect a patient’s sexual experience and pleasure, eventually leading to decreased libido and arousal.
3. Aggravation of the condition or transmission of diseases
While most cases of epididymitis are caused by bacterial infections, some are caused by infectious pathogens such as mycoplasma, chlamydia, gonorrhea, etc., which may be transmitted to sexual partners during intercourse, leading to cross-infection. Additionally, sex may worsen the condition, spreading inflammation and triggering other genitourinary diseases.
How to prevent epididymitis from affecting sex life
To prevent epididymitis from affecting sex life, patients can take the following measures:
1. Seek timely medical treatment
Consult with a healthcare professional promptly and undergo scientific treatment with antibiotics, diuretics, and anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent the progression of the condition.
2. Pain management
For severe pain and discomfort, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, massage, heat therapy, etc., can be used for relief.
3. Avoid excessive fatigue
During the recovery period, patients should avoid excessive physical exertion and vigorous exercise to recover health more quickly.
4. Lifestyle adjustments
Change habits and dietary patterns, such as maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding unsafe sexual behaviors, spicy foods, quitting smoking and drinking, etc.
In conclusion, whether patients with epididymitis can have sex depends on the severity of the disease. If the condition is mild, patients can engage in sex appropriately, but if the condition is severe, it is recommended to refrain from sex until recovery to avoid harm to oneself and partners.
