By Emily Wagner, MS on May 25, 2024

Emily earned a Bachelor of Science in biotechnology from Rochester Institute of Technology in 2018, and a Master of Science in biomedical sciences with a focus in pharmacology from University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in 2020. She currently lives in Colorado where she enjoys the mountains, spending time with her dog, baking, and reading a good book.

Ice Therapy for Enlarged Prostate: Myth or Miracle?

Enlarged Prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common issue affecting men as they age.1 It can lead to bothersome urinary symptoms, prompting many to seek relief through various means, including unconventional methods like ice therapy. But does ice therapy really help with an enlarged Prostate? Let’s dive into this topic and explore whether ice therapy holds any promise

Understanding Enlarged Prostate

BPH refers to the enlargement of the Prostate — a small, walnut-shaped gland found in the male reproductive system. If the Prostate becomes too large, it can pinch the urethra and block urine flow. This makes it harder to completely empty urine from the bladder.1

Men with BPH often struggle with frequent urination (especially at night), a weak urine stream, and urgency. If it’s left untreated, BPH can lead to urinary tract infections and even kidney damage.1 It’s crucial to address these symptoms to avoid health complications.

Doctors typically treat BPH with1 the following:

  • Lifestyle changes, like limiting fluid intake, caffeine, and alcohol
  • Medications to stop Prostate growth or shrink the gland
  • Surgeries to destroy or remove enlarged Prostate tissues

The Concept Behind Ice Therapy

Icing an injury helps control inflammation and constricts or tightens the blood vessels to limit blood flow.2 Some have speculated that ice therapy may have a similar effect in treating BPH. In this approach, ice packs or cold compresses are applied to the perineal area — the space between the scrotum and anus. Advocates of this treatment suggest that cold temperatures reduce inflammation and swelling in the Prostate to relieve urinary symptoms.

  • Anecdotal Evidence

    These days, many men look for simple, accessible ways to treat health conditions like BPH. Some claim that ice therapy with cold plunges (immersing in very cold water) has relieved their BPH symptoms.

  • Scientific Perspective

    As it stands, there aren’t many scientific studies that have investigated ice therapy for BPH or urinary retention. Some small reports suggest this approach may be effective, but the results are mixed.3 Researchers need to conduct larger, well-designed clinical trials to validate the efficacy of ice therapy.

  • Potential Risks

    While trying a simple, at-home solution like ice therapy, it’s important to understand the associated risks. Never apply an ice pack directly to your skin, as it can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, and even frostbite.4 It’s always best to seek proper medical guidance before attempting self-treatment to avoid injuries.

  • Importance of Consulting a Healthcare Professional

    Before trying an alternative therapy like ice therapy, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. Urologists are specially trained to diagnose BPH properly and offer appropriate treatment options. They can also provide key insights into the safety and potential risk factors of at-home approaches that may otherwise be dangerous. Due to a lack of solid scientific evidence, urologists aren’t likely to recommend ice therapy for BPH.

Conclusion

Ice therapy for treating BPH remains up for debate, as most reports show only anecdotal successes. Traditional treatments supported by years of data from large studies — including medications and surgery — are still the optimal approach for managing uncomfortable BPH symptoms. Natural supplements like Vital Promise’s Prostate Formula also promote healthy Prostate function and support regular urination patterns.

If you’re interested in trying seemingly harmless alternative therapies like ice therapy or drinking warm water to help your Prostate, we encourage you to seek professional medical advice.

References

  1. Prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Updated September 2014. Accessed June 16, 2024.https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/Prostate-problems/Prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia

  2. Injury: should I use ice or heat? Boys Town National Research Hospital website. Accessed June 16, 2024. https://www.boystownhospital.org/knowledge-center/injury-use-ice-heat#

  3. Mirzaei T, Roudbari F, Ravari A, Mirzaei S, Hassanshahi E. Comparison of the effect of hot and cold compresses on post-operative urinary retention in older patients: A clinical trial study. Int J Urol Nurs. 2024; 18(1):e12386.

  4. Cold therapy (cryotherapy) for pain management. University of Rochester Medical Center website. Accessed June 16, 2024. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=134&contentid=95