Is it credible to treat prostatitis with hot water sitz bath?

Prostatitis is a common and particularly harmful male disease. There are many clinical methods to treat this disease, such as taking medication, surgical treatment, etc. Some people also say that hot water sitz baths can treat prostatitis. Facts have proved that this method has a certain effect, mainly by promoting blood circulation and anti-inflammatory to achieve the treatment purpose, but there are also certain side effects, such as affecting sperm production.

1. Hot water sitz bath for prostatitis

In fact, the principle of hot water sitz bath is very simple. It can increase the local temperature of the patient, relax muscles, dilate blood vessels, accelerate blood circulation, promote the dissipation and absorption of local inflammatory exudates, and make the patient feel warm and comfortable, alleviating clinical symptoms. Hot water sitz bath does not require special equipment and patients can do it at home. It is simple and convenient and is an effective auxiliary measure for the treatment of chronic prostatitis. The specific method is to add nearly half a basin of water in a large basin. After the patient has urinated and defecated, he sits on his buttocks in the basin. The water temperature is generally required to be between 40℃ and 42℃. Each sitz bath should last for 15 to 30 minutes. Hot water can be added in the middle to maintain the water temperature. Sitz bath should be done 1 to 2 times a day until the prostatitis is cured. If you experience itching or rash in the perineum during a sitz bath, especially a Chinese medicine sitz bath, you should not continue the sitz bath.

However, since hot water sitz baths may have adverse effects on the patient's testicles, they are generally prohibited for unmarried and childless young men. This is because long-term hot water sitz baths will increase the temperature of the testicles, thereby hindering the testicle's spermatogenesis function. In severe cases, it will also cause changes in other functions and structures of the testicles, making the testicles unable to recover. In addition, this acquired testicular damage may lead to a decrease in testosterone secretion, which may cause the premature onset of partial androgen deficiency syndrome in middle-aged and elderly men. Therefore, it is also necessary to be cautious when using hot water sitz baths for general patients with chronic prostatitis.

2. Nursing of prostatitis

1. Long-term treatment and simultaneous treatment of other urinary and reproductive system inflammations can prevent the recurrence of prostatitis.

2. Living a regular life, having a regular daily routine, and insisting on proper physical exercise can improve blood circulation, promote the secretion of prostatic fluid, dilute bacterial toxins, and at the same time help drug absorption and enhance resistance.

3. Drink more water and urinate more often to flush the urethra frequently with urine to help excrete prostate secretions and prevent infection.

4. Moderation in masturbation and regular sex life can reduce prostate congestion and edema, which is beneficial to the health of the prostate. Keep the external genitalia and perineum clean to prevent infection.

5. Avoid spicy, pungent and irritating foods, quit smoking and drinking, keep bowel movements smooth, and reduce factors that induce prostatitis.

6. Keeping the habit of taking a hot water bath every night and wearing less or no tight underwear are beneficial for preventing the recurrence and treatment of prostatitis.