Prostatic calculi explained as common 'down there' issue can cause stinging semen

If you or a loved one have ever experienced a stinging sensation 'down there', it can unsurprisingly be a cause for alarm.

There is a surprisingly common condition that can cause pain below the belt for men, and it's not an STI either.

One confused social media user got everybody talking, when they posed a personal question on Reddit about a 'friend'.

Turning to the internet for answers, they wrote: "A guy told me his semen has crystals in it. What does that mean?"

The responses ranged from horror, to cracking jokes, while some people actually decided to be helpful and gave some sensible answers, advising that it may well be a common - but painful - condition called prostatic calculi.

If you're scratching your head thinking it's the first time you've heard of it, you're not alone.

This common condition can be alarming and painful (Getty Stock)

What is prostatic calculi?

Sometimes also known as prostate stones, these little 'crystals' form when a calcium deposit builds up in the prostate.

They are usually around the same size as a poppy seed.

You may get just one, or you could develop hundreds of them.

They are then expelled through ejaculation or via urinating, if they are small enough to pass.

Dr Clair Grainger from Superdrug Online Doctor told Metro that it tends to be caused by long-term inflammation in the prostate.

However, they can also be caused by bacterial prostatitis, and age is often a factor too.

The condition tends to be most common in men aged over 50.

It can strike younger men too, if they're not drinking enough water, sitting a lot and eating a diet which is high in calcium.

Eating it to excess can cause the stones to form.

A diet high in excess calcium can cause stones to build (Getty Stock)

What are the symptoms of prostatic calculi?

It can often be a 'silent' condition and doesn't show any symptoms, so it can be difficult to know how many men have it.

Dr Grainger advises: "Most people never know they have prostate stones as they are often only found during a prostate scan."

The unlucky few who do experience symptoms may notice a few changes.

Dr Grainger explains: "Some men experience a dull ache or pressure in the lower pelvis, perineum, or lower back. Others notice stinging pain or discomfort when urinating or during ejaculation."

"This may lead to reduced semen volume and changes in semen appearance, which can affect fertility if left untreated," she continues.

Most cases don't need treatment as the body simply flushes it out by itself.