You don't necessarily have to avoid sex if you have prostatitis — swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland.

Typically, sex won't worsen prostatitis. However, some men who have prostatitis experience pain with ejaculation. This can interfere with the enjoyment of sex.

Prostatitis is frequently caused by bacterial infections, but it's usually not caused by something that can be passed on to your partner during sex. In rare cases, prostatitis is caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Don't have sex until you see your doctor if you have any signs of an STI, such as sores on your genitals or abnormal discharge from your penis.

Prostatitis — and other conditions with similar symptoms — have a number of possible causes. Some of them can have serious consequences if they aren't treated. If you have pelvic pain, difficult or painful urination, or painful ejaculation, see your doctor.