Prostatitis

Today I had a semen analysis.  The Dr. called me within an hour and said there were "significant problems" with my sample because it contained "a tremendous number" of white blood cells.  He suspects prostatitis, but is sending my back to my urologist for a thorough workup.  He also said there were NO "complete" sperm in my sample.  At this point I was pretty upset, so I sort of zoned out, but I'm pretty sure he said there were some tails in the sample.  

If I do have prostatitis, what are the chances that this is causing the problem with my sperm?  If so, will the problem with my sperm be alleviated if/when my prostatitis has been cured?  

Please help!  I am very distressed over this news as my wife and I are in our early thirties and really want to have a child.  Should we start look at adoption as an option?  Thank you in advance.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Prostatitis can certainly be responsible for the increased white blood cells in the semen sample.  Treatment of the prostatitis with appropriate antibiotics may improve the quality of the sperm in the analysis.  A thorough digital rectal exam as well as sampling the prostatic fluid and urine should be considered.  

I would consider antibiotics and a repeat sperm analysis after proper treatment.  If the sample continues to be non-viable, then  other causes of spermatic damage should be considered.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[jsweeney20]

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