Epididymitis Causes

The cause of epididymitis is usually a bacterial infection. The bacteria usually get to the epididymis by moving back through the urethra (urine passes through the urethra from the bladder). The exact bacteria are identified in about 80% of cases.

Two main groups of organisms cause epididymitis: sexually transmitted organisms and coliforms (organisms that live in the intestines).

• In men younger than 35 years, the causes are usually the same organisms that cause the sexually transmitted diseases of chlamydia (responsible for nearly 50-60% of cases) and gonorrhea.

• In those older than 35 years and men who participate in anal intercourse, the causes are usually coliforms, which are bacteria (such as Escherichia coli) that live in the intestines. These organisms also cause bladder infections.

• Chemical epididymitis (rare) is inflammation caused by the backward flow of urine when exercising or having sex with a full bladder.