When urine is not completely voided, it is a target for bacteria. This exposure can cause an infection in the prostate. Therefore, treating blockages that limit the flow of urine out of the bladder is a helpful strategy. This can reduce the amount of urine that is left in the bladder after urination. It reduces the risk of urinary infection.
Acute bacterial prostatitis can lead to the spread of bacteria into the bloodstream. This can cause septic shock. Septic shock is dangerously low blood pressure that occurs as a result of a systemic or full-body infection. A pocket of pus or an abscess can also form in the prostate.
Acute prostatitis is not contagious, and poses no risk to others.