From the Research
No, abstinence does not cause benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is primarily caused by hormonal changes as men age, particularly related to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estrogen levels. The condition involves non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs in men over 50. Sexual activity or lack thereof (abstinence) has no direct causal relationship with the development of BPH. The main risk factors for BPH include aging, family history, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Some men mistakenly believe that sexual abstinence might lead to prostate problems because they experience temporary prostate fullness or discomfort during periods without sexual activity, but this is not the same as BPH and does not lead to the condition.
Key Points to Consider
- BPH is a common condition in older men, affecting up to 80% of men aged >or= 80 years in the United States 1.
- The exact cause of BPH is unknown, but it is associated with elevations in plasma estradiol/testosterone ratio, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor-I 1.
- Recent studies have reported that daily aerobic exercise and a low-fat, high-fiber diet can reduce the risk of BPH 1.
- Ejaculatory disorders are common in men with BPH, and medical and surgical treatments can affect ejaculatory function 2.
- The primary treatment for BPH is alpha-blockers, which can provide relief from bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) 3.
Recommendations
- If you're experiencing urinary symptoms like frequent urination, weak stream, or difficulty starting urination, these could be signs of BPH and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider regardless of your sexual activity patterns.
- A healthy lifestyle, including daily aerobic exercise and a balanced diet, may help reduce the risk of BPH.
- Men with BPH should discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider, including alpha-blockers and other medical and surgical therapies.