Prostatitis is swelling and irritation of the prostate gland. The signs can start suddenly or creep in over weeks, and they often mimic a plain bladder infection—until they don’t.

Burning is the first clue. It stings at the start of the stream and can keep stinging even after you stop.

Urgency and frequency team up. You race to the bathroom every hour, yet only a small, slow amount comes out.

Ache sits deep. It feels like a golf ball parked between the legs, and the pain can shoot into the lower back, testicles, or tip of the penis.

Ejaculate hurts or burns. Semen may look normal, but the act feels like a cramp deep inside.

Some people see a cloudy drop at the tip of the penis after urinating, or notice a musty smell in the underwear.

If infection is the cause, fever, chills, and joint aches can join the mix, making you feel like you’ve caught the flu—except the burn is still there.