The prostate gland, which is in charge of creating seminal fluid, is afflicted by prostate cancer. The urethra, the tube that ejects urine and sperm from the body, is surrounded by the prostate gland, which is situated directly below the bladder. When prostate cancer develops, it can cause a range of symptoms, including changes in sexual function.
In this article, we will discuss the ways in which prostate cancer can affect a man’s sex life, and how these effects can be managed and treated.
Prostate cancer and sexual function relationship
Sexual function is complex and involves many different factors, including physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Prostate cancer can affect sexual function in a variety of ways, depending on the stage of the cancer, the type of treatment used, and the individual’s overall health.
Some of the most common ways that prostate cancer can affect sexual function include:
Erectile dysfunction: Erectile dysfunction, or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity, is a common side effect of prostate cancer and its treatment. This is because the nerves and blood vessels that control erections are located near the prostate gland, and can be damaged during surgery or radiation therapy.
Loss of libido: Many men with prostate cancer report a decrease in their desire for sex, or libido. This can be due to physical changes in the body or hormone therapy, as well as emotional factors such as anxiety, depression, or stress.
Premature ejaculation: Some men may experience premature ejaculation, or the inability to control ejaculation, after prostate cancer treatment. This can be due to changes in the nerves and muscles involved in ejaculation, as well as psychological factors such as anxiety or stress.
Pain during sex: In some cases, prostate cancer can cause pain during sexual activity. This may be due to inflammation or damage to the prostate gland, or to the nerves and muscles involved in sexual function.
Changes in orgasm: Prostate cancer and its treatment can also cause changes in the way a man experiences orgasm. Some men may have difficulty achieving orgasm, or may experience a weaker or less intense orgasm.
Managing sexual side effects of prostate cancer treatment
While the sexual side effects of prostate cancer and its treatment can be challenging, there are many options available for managing and treating these issues. Some of the most common strategies for managing sexual side effects include:
Medications: There are several medications available that can help treat erectile dysfunction, including sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). These medications act by enhancing blood flow to the penis, which can assist males in obtaining and maintaining an erection. In addition, medications such as dapoxetine can be used to treat premature ejaculation.
Penile implants: For men who are unable to achieve an erection with medication, penile implants may be an option. Penile implants are small devices that are surgically implanted in the penis, and can be inflated to produce an erection. Inflatable and malleable penile implants are the two primary varieties.
Vacuum devices: Male vacuum pump, also known as penis pumps, can be used to help men achieve an erection. These devices work by creating a vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the penis and helps it become erect.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is proving to be a very effective Erectile Dysfunction treatment option. It is thought that this therapy’s use of low intensity shockwaves may be able to encourage the formation of new blood vessels in the penis by increasing blood flow to the area and promoting the release of growth factors. The removal of plaque that has built up in the blood vessels of the penis may also be aided by the shockwaves, which could improve blood flow and erectile function. Shockwave therapy for ED is becoming increasingly popular as a result.
Counseling: For men experiencing emotional or psychological factors that are impacting their sexual function, counseling or therapy can be helpful. A therapist can work with the individual to address issues such as anxiety, depression, or relationship problems, and develop strategies for coping with these issues.
Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your lifestyle can also help improve sexual function. This may include things like maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat sexual side effects of prostate cancer. For example, surgery may be used to remove scar tissue or repair damaged nerves or blood vessels. However, surgery is typically only considered after other treatments have failed, as it can be risky and may lead to further complications.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can also be used to treat sexual side effects of prostate cancer. For example, low-dose radiation therapy may be used to help improve erectile function, while high-dose radiation therapy may be used to treat pain or inflammation in the prostate gland.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is a treatment that is sometimes used to shrink or slow the growth of prostate cancer. However, hormone therapy can also have sexual side effects, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
It’s important to note that not all men will experience sexual side effects of prostate cancer and its treatment, and the severity of these side effects can vary widely. Additionally, not all men will require treatment for these side effects. However, if you are experiencing sexual side effects that are impacting your quality of life, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your options.
Tips for managing sexual side effects of prostate cancer
In addition to the treatments listed above, there are several things you can do to help manage the sexual side effects of prostate cancer and its treatment. These include:
Communicate with your partner: Communication is key when it comes to managing sexual side effects of prostate cancer. Talk openly and honestly with your partner about your feelings, fears, and concerns, and work together to find ways to maintain intimacy and sexual satisfaction.
Explore other forms of intimacy: If you are unable to engage in sexual activity, there are other forms of intimacy that can help maintain a strong emotional connection with your partner. This may include things like cuddling, kissing, and touching.
Experiment with different positions: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during sexual activity, try experimenting with different positions that may be more comfortable for you.
Be patient: It may take some time to find the right treatment or combination of treatments to help manage your sexual side effects. Be patient, and work closely with your doctor to find the best solution for you.
Take care of yourself: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help improve sexual function and overall quality of life. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and reduce stress whenever possible.Â
Prostate cancer can have a significant impact on a man’s sexual function, but there are many treatments and strategies available for managing and treating these side effects. It’s important to talk to your doctor about your options, and to be patient as you work to find the best solution for you. With the right care and support, it’s possible to maintain a fulfilling and satisfying sex life after prostate cancer.
As, ED is the most common side effect of prostate cancer treatment, a man is likely to be suffering from ED than anything else, after undergoing prostate cancer treatment.
That’s why if anyone is suffering from ED due to prostate cancer treatment then he should contact a top-rated men’s health clinic. One such clinic is Shockwave Clinics Ltd. It is the best non-invasive treatment provider to the men who are suffering from ED, PD or other sexual issues.
