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I want to manage symptoms on my own

Would you like to try managing BPE symptoms yourself? There are simple lifestyle changes, tips, and self-care strategies that may help reduce discomfort and improve daily life. Still, it’s important to remember that treatment choices should always be discussed with your doctor, who can guide you on what’s safe and effective for your situation.

Possible treatments

Self-management of BPE symptoms

You can take steps to manage your enlarged prostate symptoms and even improve them. Here are some tips that might help:

  • Take your time when you go to the bathroom. Sit down and try to fully empty your bladder each time you urinate.
  • Try double voiding. After you finish urinating, wait a moment, then try again. This can help empty your bladder completely.
  • After you’ve urinated, gently press the area under your scrotum and slide your fingers along the bottom of your penis, from the base to the tip. This helps push out any remaining drops of urine, keeping your underwear dry.
  • When you feel a sudden need to urinate, try deep breathing to help calm the feeling and delay going.
  • Try bladder training. Use relaxation and muscle exercises to help wait longer between bathroom trips. For example:
    • Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 seconds. This can help calm the need to go.
    • Focus on something else, like counting backward or listening to calming music, to take your mind off the urgency.
    • Squeeze the muscles you use to stop urinating, hold for 5 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times. This helps strengthen your pelvic floor over time.
  • Keep a bladder diary. Write down when you go to the bathroom and note any symptoms you notice. This can help you and your doctor track changes and find the best way to manage your symptoms.
  • Eat more fibre. Constipation can make symptoms worse, so eat more fibre to keep your bowel movements regular.

If your symptoms are mild and not bothering you much, you might choose to just simply keeping an eye on them for now. Follow this link to learn more about watchful waiting.

This chapter provides general information about benign prostate enlargement. It is not a replacement for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: August 2026

Reviewed by: 

  • Dr. Mesut Berkan Duran (EAU Guidelines Panel on Non-Neurogenic Male LUTS)
  • Assoc. Prof. Mikolaj Przydacz (YAU Working Group on Functional Urology)
  • Assoc. Prof. Nikolaos Pyrgidis (EAU Guidelines Panel on Non-Neurogenic Male LUTS)