Prostate diseases in men can indeed lead to infertility. The prostate is an important gland in the male reproductive system, and the prostatic fluid it secretes is a vital component of semen, playing a crucial role in the survival and motility of sperm. When the prostate is affected by diseases such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate cancer, these conditions may have adverse effects on male fertility.
Prostatitis is a common inflammatory disease of the prostate, characterized by symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, and dysuria. Prolonged chronic inflammation can alter the physicochemical properties of prostatic fluid, affecting sperm activity, potentially leading to decreased sperm quality and increasing the risk of infertility. Additionally, prostatitis may also cause sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, indirectly impacting male fertility.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common benign disease in middle-aged and older men, mainly presenting as an enlargement of the prostate gland and urinary obstruction. As the prostate enlarges, the urethra may be compressed, resulting in difficulty urinating and increased residual urine volume. This not only increases the risk of urinary tract infections but may also affect the ejaculation of sperm and fertilization process, thereby increasing the likelihood of infertility.
Although early symptoms of prostate cancer may not be apparent, as cancer cells grow and spread, an enlarged prostate may exert pressure on the urethra, causing severe urinary obstruction. Moreover, cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, further compromising the patient’s fertility and overall health.
Prostate diseases in men can indeed lead to infertility. Therefore, men should prioritize prostate health, undergo regular prostate examinations, promptly identify and treat prostate diseases. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and avoiding prolonged sitting, can help prevent the occurrence of prostate diseases.
