Expectations (prognosis)
The majority of men who are accurately diagnosed with acute prostatitis become symptom-free after treatment.
Patients who have had acute prostatitis are prone to recurrence and are likely to develop chronic prostatitis.
Complications
Chronic prostatitis can develop. Urinary retention may occur as a result of the swollen prostate occluding the urethra.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if symptoms of prostatitis occur.
Prevention
Not all types of prostatitis are preventable. Thorough hand-washing after a bowel movement and prior to handling the penis may prevent the transfer of bacteria from the rectal area to the genitourinary tract.
Infections that are associated with STDs can be prevented by practicing safer-sex behaviors.