Background and Aim:

Chronic pelvic floor pain syndrome (CPPS) is the most common urological condition in men under 50, but men's lived experiences with CPPS are under-researched. This study explores how men with CPPS perceive their sexual and general health, and which healthcare and environmental factors support coping and recovery.

Method:

Sixteen men (age 30 to 57) with current or previous CPPS participated in semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analyzed thematically.

Results:

Four main themes were generated: (1) Dealing with a diffuse diagnosis, (2) Sex life that has taken a turn for the worse, (3) Things men prefer not to talk about, and (4) Favorable factors for recovery. Most reported dissatisfaction with care, lack of effective treatments, and poor mental health including suicidal thoughts, which were rarely discussed with healthcare providers. Sexual problems were common. Helpful interventions included physiotherapy, PDE-5 inhibitors, and support from a partner.

Conclusion and Implications:

Knowledge about CPPS remains limited. Shame and fear can hinder open dialogue. Increased awareness and a holistic approach in healthcare are needed, especially regarding sexual and mental health.