By Dr. Rahul Jena – Uro-Oncologist & Robotic Surgeon, Bhubaneswar
Being diagnosed with prostate cancer often brings a range of emotional and physical concerns. Among the most personal and commonly asked questions is: “How will this affect my sexual health?”
This concern is completely valid—and important. Prostate cancer and its treatments can have significant impacts on a man’s sexual function, but with the right knowledge, support, and treatment choices, many men continue to enjoy fulfilling intimate lives.
In this blog, Dr. Rahul Jena explains the connection between prostate cancer and sexual health, and what men can expect before, during, and after treatment.
The Role of the Prostate in Sexual Function
The prostate gland is a small organ located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces a fluid that is a vital part of semen. While the prostate itself doesn’t control erections or orgasms, it’s situated very close to nerves and structures that do.
So, treatments targeting the prostate—whether surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy—can potentially affect sexual function.
Common Sexual Health Issues After Prostate Cancer Treatment
The extent of sexual side effects can vary depending on the treatment approach and individual factors such as age, baseline sexual function, and overall health. Below are some of the common challenges:
1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
This is the most common sexual side effect following prostate cancer treatment. It may be temporary or long-term depending on how the nerves surrounding the prostate were affected.
Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy): Even with nerve-sparing techniques, temporary ED is common due to nerve trauma. Recovery may take months to over a year.
Radiation Therapy: Can cause gradual erectile decline over time due to damage to blood vessels or nerves.
Hormone Therapy: Reduces testosterone levels, which often lowers libido and can lead to ED.
2. Dry Orgasm
After prostate surgery, men typically no longer ejaculate semen. Orgasms still occur but are “dry” due to the removal of the glands that produce seminal fluid.
3. Loss of Libido
Hormonal therapy, fatigue, depression, and anxiety—all of which can accompany cancer diagnosis and treatment—can reduce sexual desire.
4. Penile Shortening or Curvature
Some men notice a change in penis length or slight curvature post-surgery or radiation, usually due to tissue changes or fibrosis.
5. Urinary Incontinence During Sex
Some men experience leakage during intimacy, which can affect confidence and desire.
Emotional Impact on Intimacy
Beyond physical challenges, the emotional toll of prostate cancer can also affect sexual well-being. Anxiety, self-image concerns, and fear of rejection may impact a man’s confidence in intimate relationships.
Open communication with a partner and professional support from a counselor or sex therapist can be very beneficial in restoring intimacy.
Options for Managing Sexual Side Effects
While side effects are common, there are effective treatments and strategies to help restore sexual function and improve quality of life.
✅ Medications
Drugs like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and others can help men regain erections, especially after nerve-sparing prostatectomy.
✅ Vacuum Erection Devices (VED)
A mechanical pump helps draw blood into the penis to create an erection.
✅ Penile Injections
Self-injected medications can produce firm erections for sexual activity, often effective when pills don’t work.
✅ Penile Implants
A surgical option for men with persistent ED. These implants provide controllable, reliable erections.
✅ Pelvic Floor Therapy
Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic muscles, potentially improving urinary control and erections.
✅ Hormone Replacement Therapy
For men with long-term hormone therapy side effects, supervised testosterone replacement may be considered in select cases.
✅ Counseling & Couples Therapy
Sexual challenges affect both partners. Emotional support and therapy can help maintain connection and intimacy.
What Patients Should Discuss With Their Doctor
Dr. Rahul Jena recommends that patients proactively bring up sexual health during their treatment planning. Questions to ask include:
Will this treatment affect my ability to have erections?
Are there options to preserve my sexual function?
What treatments are available if I experience ED?
How soon can I resume sexual activity after treatment?
Dr. Jena emphasizes, “Sexual health is a critical part of overall wellness. No man should feel embarrassed to discuss it. We now have more options than ever to help men maintain or regain sexual function after prostate cancer treatment.”
Life After Prostate Cancer: Hope and Healing
Though prostate cancer treatment can present challenges to a man’s sexual health, many men recover significant function over time, especially with early intervention and support. Staying physically active, eating a heart-healthy diet, and managing stress all contribute to improved recovery.
Open dialogue, patience, and education empower men and their partners to adapt and thrive.
In Conclusion
Sexual health is a deeply personal yet often overlooked part of cancer care. While prostate cancer treatment may bring changes, many solutions exist to help men regain sexual confidence and satisfaction.
Dr. Rahul Jena, a leading Uro-Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon in Bhubaneswar, is committed to helping men make informed choices and access the best possible care—not just to treat cancer, but to preserve quality of life.
If you or a loved one is facing prostate cancer, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone. Speak with a compassionate, experienced specialist like Dr. Rahul Jena to explore personalized treatment options and long-term recovery strategies.