Given pervasive cultural taboos and outdated notions of masculinity, broaching the subject of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to your partner isn’t always easy. Many men find it daunting, especially since it can cause urinary issues. However, it’s important to recognise the support and understanding of loved ones can be invaluable.
So, if you're feeling apprehensive and wondering how to tackle this sensitive topic with your significant other, here are some practical tips to gently guide you through the conversation.
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?(BPH)
Before delving in, let’s briefly look at the basics. The prostate is a small gland located just below your bladder, which plays a critical role in reproductive function.
As you age, your prostate can increase in size. This natural growth is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, which is extremely common in men over 50 (1).
Symptoms of BPH include:
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Have a weak or slow urine flow that starts and stops
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Dribbling at the end of urination
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A strong or sudden urge to pass urine
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Passing more urine during the day
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Not being able to fully empty the bladder
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Frequent urination at night (nocturia)
Understanding how your prostate changes with age, as well as enlarged prostate symptoms, can help alleviate anxiety, encourage lifestyle improvements, and prompt proper medical treatment.
Staying informed also means taking control of your wellbeing and supporting your health for the years to come. You can learn more about the link between ageing and benign prostatic hyperplasia here.
Practise self-compassion
Experiencing discomfort or embarrassment when discussing BPH with your partner is completely natural. That’s why practising self-compassion, which involves cultivating kindness towards yourself for any feelings of inadequacy, is so essential.
Showing vulnerability by discussing your health concerns is a sign of strength, not weakness. Acknowledging and accepting your feelings paves the way for more open communication with your partner, strengthening relationships and building trust.
Remember, dealing with enlarged prostate symptoms will never diminish your masculinity. Your health and happiness are priorities, and speaking honestly about BPH demonstrates strength, responsibility, and a commitment to your wellbeing.
Choose the right time and setting
Timing and environment play crucial roles in facilitating open and candid conversations. Creating a comfortable, conducive atmosphere can help both you and your partner feel more at ease and receptive to discussing sensitive topics like prostate health.
Choose a moment when you and your partner are relaxed and undistracted, perhaps during a quiet evening at home or while taking a leisurely walk together. Consider the privacy, too, and try to minimise distractions like TVs and phones.
Avoid bringing up the topic during stressful or tense situations, as this may negatively impact communication.
Approach the conversation with sensitivity
Initiating a frank conversation about your enlarged prostate requires both sensitivity and empathy.
To start, you may wish to express your desire for open discussion because you value your partner’s support and understanding. At this point, you may also want to acknowledge any discomfort or awkwardness surrounding the topic.
Once you've set the stage for open communication, try to be honest and forthcoming about any changes you've noticed or emotions you’re experiencing. For example, you might be feeling frustrated by the inability to fully empty your bladder, fatigued from frequent trips to the bathroom at night, or anxious about venturing out due to concerns about potential accidents.
Finding this challenging is normal. Try to remind yourself that your partner cares deeply for you and wants the best for you. They should go above and beyond to make you feel seen and validated throughout the conversation.
Encourage your partner to ask questions
An open conversation is a two-way street, so encourage your partner to ask questions and share their thoughts and feelings. Remember, their input and advice are invaluable on your journey towards better prostate health.
Inviting your partner to engage and actively listen in the conversation creates a supportive environment where both of you can navigate the topic of benign prostatic hyperplasia together. Ultimately, it brings you closer, reinforcing the foundation of trust and support in your relationship.
Don’t forget the professionals
Of course, if divulging to your partner feels too much at the moment, that’s perfectly okay. It’s a big step, and it’s essential to move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Instead, consider first reaching out to a health professional for support and guidance.
Aside from consulting your doctor – who should be informed of your BPH anyway – you could also seek support from a Pharmacist or even our team of expert Nutrition Advisors, who are on hand to provide free, confidential advice.
Feel empowered to support your health
While conversations with your loved ones are important, prioritising your overall health and wellbeing is vital, too.
Besides making tweaks to your lifestyle, nutrition is one of the best tools in your arsenal for an enlarged prostate. Eating a diet rich in nutrient-dense whole foods and low in red meat and processed foods can support prostate health. Incorporating the following nutrients can also provide targeted support.
Best vitamins for prostate health
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Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone, fertility, and reproduction. It also helps protect cells from oxidative damage. High levels of stress, caffeine, smoking, and drinking can exhaust zinc stores in the body. Meat, shellfish, legumes, whole grains, eggs, cacao powder, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of zinc.
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Vitamin D3 plays a critical role in immune function, which supports countless areas of men’s health. The best way to synthesise vitamin D3 is from direct sunlight. However, this isn’t always possible in winter months. As such, the NHS recommends supplementing with 10µg from October to March. You can also find small amounts in meat, oily fish, eggs, and fortified foods.
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Beta-sitosterol is a sterol found in almost all plants and is often recommended for mature men. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are rich in beta-sitosterol.
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Quercetin is a widely researched bioflavonoid and remains a popular choice for men’s health. Good sources include apples, onions, parsley, sage, tea, red wine, blueberries and dark cherries.
Explore our range of bespoke nutritional formulas for men aged 50 and above here.
Want to find out more?
Talking to your partner about your benign prostatic hyperplasia may feel daunting at first, but it's a vital step toward prioritising your wellbeing and strengthening your relationships. Remember, your romantic partner is your partner in health. They love you and care about you deeply. Together, you can navigate any challenges that arise.
Aside from leaning on loved ones, you can always reach our team of expert Nutrition Advisors for free, confidential health advice. To explore more ways to support your prostate health, visit Nutrition Buzz.
A final note from our Nutrition Advisors: If you experience any signs of urinary discomfort, such as nocturia (frequent urination at night), a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying, or a weakened or interrupted urine stream, it’s important to consult your doctor for medical advice. They can help determine if you have benign prostatic hyperplasia or another prostate problem that may need prompt medical intervention.
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References:
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NHS. Overview - Benign prostate enlargement. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-enlargement/
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Disclaimer: The information presented by Nature's Best is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
Olivia
Olivia Salter has always been an avid health nut. After graduating from the University of Bristol, she began working for a nutritional consultancy where she discovered her passion for all things wellness-related. There, she executed much of the company’s content marketing strategy and found her niche in health writing, publishing articles in Women’s Health, Mind Body Green, Thrive and Psychologies.
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