Signs and Symptoms

[Kristine]

My boyfriend has been experiencing symptoms similar to a bladder infection, he feels like he has to urinate all the time, then when he does go, barely anything happens. He is also experiencing a difference when he ejaculates, it's not as much as usual and seems uncomfortable when it does happen. He keeps saying, "there is something wrong with my prostate", but will NOT go to the doctor! It is so frustrating. What can I say to him to make him go to the doctor?? besides dragging him there myself. Are these signs of something serious with his prostate? Thanks for the help.

[Dr Claire Mansfield]

Hi Kristine
That does sound really difficult that you are both concerned about him but that he won't go to the GP. Reassure him that his GP will be very used to these kinds of issues and that the GP won't make him undergo any examination that he doesn't want to have, he could simply go for an initial appointment just to voice his concerns and then hear the options for if and how to investigate. He could also ring NHS direct and speak to them first if he would find that easier than having a face to face appointment, although I imagine they will encourage him to go to his GP. However, it might help him to hear it from someone else other than you. Good luck.

[Joanne Hoyle]

Hi Kristine
Thank you for your post.
I would definitely get your boyfriend to have a check up at his GP re the symptoms you describe.
You do not say how old he is so difficult to assess the potential cause as his prostate but this can be a factor at any age but usually does affect men passed the age of 50.
Thanks
Joanne