Enlarged prostate: Should I avoid sexual activity?

Is it OK to have sexual intercourse if I have an enlarged prostate? Will this make the condition worse or cause pain?

- Mike / Pennsylvania

Mayo Clinic endocrinologist and men's health specialist Todd Nippoldt, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

You don't have to avoid sexual intercourse if you have an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). Sexual intercourse won't worsen symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Also, an enlarged prostate shouldn't cause pain or discomfort during sexual activity, unless you have an underlying urinary tract infection associated with prostatitis. However, some research suggests that BPH may be associated with erectile dysfunction.

If you have an enlarged prostate and are experiencing erectile dysfunction or pain or discomfort with sexual intercourse or ejaculation, consult your doctor to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.