Does Prostate Massage Help BPH?

Are you interested in exploring prostate massage to relieve uncomfortable urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

While there is some evidence to suggest massaging the prostate may help release excess seminal fluid from the prostate gland ducts and temporarily alleviate urinary symptoms, BPH massage is not considered a lasting treatment for medical conditions.

Keep reading to learn what BPH is, available treatment options, and the benefits of prostate massage for temporary relief.

Understanding BPH

BPH, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that affects the prostate gland in men as they age.

An enlarged prostate gland can press your bladder and urethra, causing BPH symptoms like

• Difficulty emptying your bladder.
• Reduced or weakened urine flow.
• Difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine.
• Urinary urgency or a sudden need to urinate, with little to no warning.

BPH symptoms are not life-threatening, but the symptoms can be very unpleasant and make it difficult to get through your daily activities. As a result, many men struggling with symptoms of an enlarged prostate seek out effective treatment options.

Treatment Options for BPH

Georgia Prostate Institute offers several BPH treatment options, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Some men with mild symptoms can successfully manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes, such as:

• Limiting or avoiding caffeine or alcohol.
• Limiting or avoiding spicy foods.
• Following a healthy diet.
• Staying hydrated and physically active.

Unfortunately, lifestyle modifications are not enough for everyone. Some men may need further interventions, including medications, BPH massage, or prostate artery embolization (PAE) treatment.

Does Prostate Massage Help BPH?

Benefits of BPH Massage

While studies on prostate massage for BPH symptoms are limited, anecdotal evidence suggests the following potential benefits:

• Temporary relief of pressure and swelling in the prostate gland and urethra.
• Temporary improvement in urine flow strength.
• Temporary improvement in the ability to stop and start urinating.

Next, we share scientific studies and findings regarding the benefits of prostate massage for BPH.

Studies and Findings on BHP Massage

The data on BPH prostate massage therapy is still emerging. However,  there are a few promising case and research studies.

• The Use of Therapeutic Massage in Benign Hyperplasia: A Case Study
  This 2023 case study followed a 55-year old man who received a 20-minute prostate massage two times a week for three weeks in a clinical setting for mild BPH symptoms. After the treatment, researchers noted the gland was reduced in volume by 30%, also resulting in a reduced symptom burden. However, since the study only looked at one patient’s experience with BPH massage, researchers were hesitant to generalize how other men might benefit from the same approach.
• Medical Massage as a Physiotherapeutic Method in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Men
  This 2007 clinical study included 43 men receiving a therapeutic BPH massage. Again, after the study, each participant reported an improvement in their symptom burdens and overall quality of life. However, researchers were careful to note these reported benefits of prostate massage for BPH were subjective and could not be supported with measurable evidence.

These small studies suggest BPH massage may be beneficial. However, it is important to note that experts like Cleveland Clinic urologist Dr. Petar Bajic say, “There’s no evidence that a prostate massage provides any medical benefit.”He warns that this type of massage could cause pain, worsen hemorrhoids, or even leave you with a rectal injury.

If you’re looking for a safer, more effective, evidence-based, non-surgical, and long-term treatment for an enlarged prostate, we encourage you to consider PAE treatment at Georgia Prostate Institute. 

Safe, Effective PAE Treatment for BPH at Georgia Prostate Institute

PAE is a game-changing intervention for those seeking relief from the disruptive symptoms of BPH.

There is a large body of evidence detailing the efficacy of the procedure. Review these studies and PAE research to learn how it causes fewer adverse effects than other treatment options.

PAE can help relieve your uncomfortable urinary symptoms and help you get back to doing what you love—uninterrupted.

Request a consultation with the experts at Georgia Prostate Institute today.