Indirect prostate massage: The abdominal technique

Indirect prostate massage, a specialized abdominal methodology involving the manipulation of the anterior abdominal wall, has emerged as a promising approach for both the prevention and treatment of various urological issues. This innovative technique aims to stimulate the genitourinary system, enhance blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in the pelvic organs, and normalize muscle tone and innervation of the bladder.

Urologists may recommend this massage technique as an integral component of a comprehensive therapeutic regimen for a range of conditions, including chronic cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, urinary incontinence, and overactive bladder syndrome. However, it is imperative to emphasize that this procedure should only be undertaken after a thorough consultation with a medical professional and the exclusion of any contraindications, which include:

• Oncological diseases of the bladder and prostate
• Acute infectious processes in the genitourinary system
• Urolithiasis or sand in the bladder
• A history of trauma or surgical interventions in the pelvic organs

Caution: If you experience a deterioration in your well-being or develop pain in the pelvic region within 1-3 hours following the procedure, this treatment modality may not be suitable for you. In such cases, it is advisable to undergo a contrast-enhanced MRI for comprehensive diagnostics and schedule an appointment with a urologist.

Mechanisms of action on the prostate gland

The beneficial effects of abdominal massage on prostate function can be attributed to several key factors:

1. Enhanced Blood Supply: The application of massage techniques promotes vasodilation and activates capillary circulation in the bladder walls, prostate, and surrounding tissues. This increased blood flow facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells, aids in the elimination of inflammatory products and toxins, and accelerates regenerative processes.
2. Lymphatic Drainage Stimulation: The rhythmic hand movements during the massage act as a form of lymphatic drainage, helping to alleviate congestion and edema in the pelvic organs. This activation of lymph flow contributes to enhanced local immunity and infection prevention.
3. Normalization of Muscle Tone and Contractility: Chronic urological conditions often lead to hypotonia or spasm of the bladder muscles and those surrounding the prostate. Massage helps restore their normal tone and contractile ability, which is crucial for effective bladder emptying and urine retention.
4. Reflex Action: The stimulation of receptors in the anterior abdominal wall during massage has a reflexive effect on bladder innervation, normalizing the regulation of urination by the central and peripheral nervous systems.
5. Psychoemotional Relaxation: An abdominal massage session, particularly when combined with aromatherapy and relaxing music, can alleviate tension and calm the nervous system. This indirectly contributes to the normalization of pelvic organ functions.

Step-by-step technique for prostate massage through the abdomen

To perform an abdominal prostate massage at home, prepare a comfortable space, massage oil or cream, and a towel. It's best to perform the procedure 1-2 hours after eating, having emptied your bladder and rectum beforehand. The massage can also be performed while seated, leaning against a backrest for maximum abdominal relaxation, as this position allows the bladder to press more closely against the prostate, enhancing the process.

Stage 1 — Stroking (2-3 minutes)

Lie on your back, optionally placing a rolled towel under your knees to relax the abdominal muscles. Using your palms or fingertips, begin making circular stroking movements over the area where the bladder is projected — midway between the pubic bone and navel. Movements should be gentle, smooth, and without strong pressure.

Stage 2 — Rubbing (3-5 minutes)

Increase the intensity and depth of the massage. Use your finger phalanges to make spiral movements, as if screwing your fingers into the abdominal wall. You may use oil for better gliding. Start from the center of the bladder projection (midway between the navel and pubic bone) and gradually expand the coverage downwards. If you encounter painful areas, linger on them, but avoid causing severe pain.

Stage 3 — Kneading (5-7 minutes)

Deeply knead the area of the bladder projection, trying to feel how the bladder and surrounding tissues press against the prostate. Locate sensitive points and spasmodic zones. You may feel a mild pain deep in the lower abdomen (below the pubic bone), which might radiate to the urethra and penis. Using your fingertips, perform pressing rotational or kneading movements, as if massaging the inner tissues. Continue until you feel relaxation and a reduction in tenderness. You can alternate with tapping, pinching, or vibration techniques.

Stage 4 — Final Stroking (2-3 minutes)

Repeat the smooth circular movements with your palms, as at the beginning of the session. You can place your hands on the lower abdomen and simply lie still for 2-3 minutes, feeling the warmth and relaxation in your body. After the massage, it's recommended to rest for 15-20 minutes.

The total duration of the procedure should be 15-20 minutes. By the end, you should begin to feel warmth and lightness in your pelvic organs, and you may experience an urge to urinate. There should be no pain; if pain occurs, take an antispasmodic medication like No-Spa and an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen or nimesulide, and consult a urologist.

For optimal results, perform the massage daily for a course of 10-12 sessions. For preventive purposes, 2-3 times a week is sufficient. If you have urological conditions, it's best to undergo 2-3 therapeutic courses with a 2-3 week break between them.

Important nuances and recommendations

• If you experience pain or discomfort in the prostate and pelvic area after the massage, reduce the intensity or frequency of the procedures and consult a doctor.
• If you discover new painful indurations during the massage that do not disappear after several sessions, it's necessary to undergo a urological examination to rule out serious pathology.
• To enhance the effect, you can combine the massage with special exercises for the pelvic floor muscles, breathing exercises, and the intake of herbal preparations and mineral water.
• Key conditions for the effectiveness of the massage include regular performance, gradual increase in intensity, and attentiveness to your body's signals.
• During the session, you should be in a state of relaxation and calm. You may play soothing music or use an aromatic lamp to enhance the psychotherapeutic effect.

Conclusion

Abdominal indirect prostate massage represents an effective means of prevention and treatment for various urological problems. When performed regularly, it helps eliminate congestion, restore normal tone and function of the genitourinary organs, and alleviate unpleasant symptoms.

Mastering this massage technique doesn't require special skills and allows for independent care of bladder health at home. However, this method should only be applied after consultation and under the supervision of a urologist, who will determine the optimal regimen of procedures considering individual characteristics and contraindications.

Combining this massage with other elements of a healthy lifestyle can help maintain the prostate and bladder in good condition for years to come. By incorporating this technique into your routine, under proper medical guidance, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining optimal urological health and potentially preventing future complications.