Chronic abacterial prostatitis: Living with a troublesome disease affecting many aspects of life

Chronic abacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a disease of yet not clarified aetiology where the symptoms, voiding dysfunction and pelvic pain are difficult to alleviate. The aim of this study is to arrive at an understanding of how it influences the individual afflicted.

Ten men with CP/CPPS were interviewed about their situation. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using a phenomenological perspective.

The often severe symptoms influence well-being and a life in more or less constant fear of a relapse is described. A majority manages, despite the problems, to endure and conceal the problems. The situation can, however, become unbearable and force the man to seek solitude or lose his temper. Social isolation and restrictions at work and during recreational activities were thus reported by those more severely afflicted. Confirmation from the healthcare system that the disease is not life threatening and affirmation that they are not unwanted and neglected are essential.

Men with CP/CPPS are mostly able to live a normal life, although it is often difficult and the people around them are rarely given an insight into their world, where their existence is focused on attempts to obtain confirmation, control abrupt mood fluctuations and develop coping strategies. They have much in common with other patient groups afflicted by chronic pain, such as difficulties in performing at work and severe fatigue. More specific for CP/CPPS is the presence of additional symptoms, which individually can severely impair quality of life. Accepting the situation and developing coping strategies are consequently challenges for a man with CP/CPPS.