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It is extremely common and normal to experience changes in sexual health during and after prostate cancer treatment.
Both partners may experience the following:
- shame
- disappointment
- fear
These feelings can lead to avoidance of sexual activity and can also impact other aspects of intimacy in a relationship.
Sexual changes may include:
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Very common
- Occurs shortly after surgery and during hormone therapy
- May disappear on its own within a year or two
- The peak occurs in the 3rd year after radiation treatment
Low sex drive (libido)
- Very common during hormone therapy
- May persist after treatment
Inability to ejaculate
- Common after radiation and some medications
- More common in men aged 65 and over
- May disappear on its own after radiation
- Happens to everyone after a prostate removal because the prostate produces fluid for semen
- If fertility is a concern, discuss the sperm bank before treatment
Pain before, during or after orgasm (dysorgasmia)
- Rarely
- Usually stops a few months after treatment
Sexual incontinence (loss of urine) during orgasm or foreplay
- Common, with half of men reporting one or both at least once after treatment
- Usually temporary
- Emptying your bladder before sex can help prevent leakage
Rediscovering sexual intimacy takes patience, creativity, and practice
Intimacy is not just about erection performance and penetration. It may include:
- Kiss
- massage
- Oral sex
- Mutual stimulation
- Erotic games
- Vibrators
Do you need support?
A sex therapist can help partners find ways to create intimacy both in and out of the bedroom.
This educational resource was created with support from Bayer and Johnson & Johnson.
