Catheters as a cause of epididymitis | Causes of epididymitis

Catheters as a cause of epididymitis

In the context of urological disorders associated with bladder dysfunction or urinary flow disturbance, the application of a urinary catheter/bladder catheter may be necessary to ensure a continuous flow of urine. However, the application of a urinary catheter is associated with an increased risk of infections of the urethra or bladder. These in turn can lead to acute inflammation of the epididymis and testicles. Once the catheter infection is detected, it should be removed as soon as possible and an antibiotic treatment initiated.

Sexual intercourse as a cause of epididymitis

Sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea (gonorrhea), which is characterized by urethritis with possible involvement of the epididymis and testes, can be transmitted during sexual intercourse. Symptoms are mainly pain when urinating and during sexual intercourse. In particular in gonorrhea, a morning whitish discharge, the so-called “bonjour droplet”, can be observed.

The risk of these infections through sexual intercourse is considered relatively high. In addition to the causal relationship between sexual intercourse and an epididymitis, this inflammation can also lead to a reduction in fertility, in the sense of sterility. This is due to adhesions of the seminal duct, which can occur during the inflammation and thus obstruct it.

If the testicles are involved, a disturbed sperm production can also occur. However, these complications are rare due to a timely and effective therapy with antibiotics. Especially in the case of gonorrhea, a morning whitish discharge, the so-called “bonjour droplet”, can be observed.

The risk of infection of these infections through sexual intercourse is considered relatively high. In addition to the causal relationship between sexual intercourse and an epididymitis, this inflammation can also lead to a reduction in fertility, in the sense of sterility. This is due to adhesions of the seminal duct, which can occur during the inflammation and thus obstruct it. If the testicles are involved, a disturbed sperm production can also occur. However, these complications are rare due to a timely and effective therapy with antibiotics.