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Watchful waiting for BPE

Watchful waiting means keeping an eye on your BPE symptoms without active treatment. Learn when it’s a good option and what to expect over time.

Related topics for further reading

Follow-up care for BPELiving with BPE

If your symptoms are mild and not bothering you much, you might choose to just simply keeping an eye on them for now. 

A watchful waiting programme includes:

  • Talking with your doctor about your symptoms
  • A physical check-up
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Information and advice about your condition
  • Ongoing support to help manage your enlarged prostate

This helps you stay informed and get the care you need while keeping a close eye on your health.

During watchful waiting, mild to moderate symptoms of an enlarged prostate can often be managed with simple lifestyle changes, such as:

  • Drinking at least 1 litre of fluid every day.
  • Drinking less before bed or before long trips to avoid needing the toilet at those times.
  • Cutting back on alcohol, caffeine, fizzy drinks, and artificial sweeteners, which can irritate your bladder and make your symptoms worse.
  • Getting regular exercise (at least 2-3 times a week). Not moving enough can make it harder to urinate.
  • Eating a balanced and varied diet.
  • Keeping your lower abdomen warm and dry, as cold and damp can increase the urge to urinate.
  • If your urine sprays when you go to the toilet, try sitting down or using a cup to urinate and pour it into the toilet.
  • Talk to your doctor about any medications you're taking, as some, like ‘water tablets’ (diuretics), can make toilet problems worse.

You’ll also have regular check-ups to make sure things aren’t getting worse. If they are, your doctor will talk to you about treatment choices.

Treatment for BPE can include:

  1. Lifestyle changes and monitoring (conservative management)
  2. Medicines
  3. Surgery

Which option is right for you depends on your symptoms, overall health, and personal preferences. Your doctor will guide you through the choices.

This chapter provides general information about watchful waiting for BPE. 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: September 2025

Reviewed by: 

  • Prof. Jean-Nicolas Cornu (Guideline Panel on Non-Neurogenic Male LUTS)
  • Dr. Tarik Emre Şener (YAU Working Group Endourology & Urolithiasis)

Other possible treatments

Watchful waiting for BPE

Where am I in my journey?

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Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE)All conditions
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