Prostate cancer affects the lives of countless men, and remains the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the U.S. When detected early it can be effectively treated and cured.
As men undergo various prostate cancer treatments, they may find their sex drive is lower than normal and that their ability to obtain and or maintain an erection is not as reliable as it was before the diagnosis. This is entirely normal, and a sign of the body responding to the cancer treatments.
Treatment typically can range from active surveillance, radiation, surgery, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy and typically depends on what stage the cancer is in (T1-T4). For nearly 80% of men, the most common issue following certain prostate cancer treatments is erectile dysfunction (ED).
While speaking to your doctor about erectile dysfunction can be uncomfortable or embarrassing, men do not need to suffer in silence. The duration of the issue depends on the person’s overall health and type of treatment. In many cases, these side effects can be just as much mental as they are physical.
Prostate cancer treatments can also affect your emotions and increase your stress and anxiety levels. It can be difficult to focus on arousal or intimate moments when things go awry, and continuing to worry about your performance can kill the mood entirely. For some, a mental health professional or therapist can be a valuable advocate and listener during this process. Some couples even consult sex therapists to help them work through these physical and mental obstacles.
It’s crucial that you and your partner practice communication and support during the recovery period following prostate cancer treatments. Being vulnerable and open with one another allows positive recovery to take hold and gives the body time to prepare for intimacy again.
Men looking to maintain intimacy may look to doctor-prescribed medical treatments, supplements and even surgery to combat the effects of ED and achieve a satisfying sexual life. It should be noted that regular exercise, a healthy diet, quitting smoking and other lifestyle changes will also have a positive effect on intimacy, and your overall health.
Arkansas Urology is the region’s leading provider of prostate cancer treatment, and for September we are offering free screenings across the state. Learn more about these events here.
Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us today or book your appointment online. We hope to see you soon!
