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It is extremely common and normal to experience changes in sexual health during and after prostate cancer treatment.
The patient and his partner may experience:
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shame
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disappointment
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fear
These feelings can lead to avoidance of sexual activity and interfere with other aspects of relationship intimacy.
Sexual changes may include:
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
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Very common
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It occurs shortly after surgery and during hormone therapy
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May disappear on its own in one to two years
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The peak occurs in the 3rd year after radiation therapy
Low sexual desire (libido)
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Very common with hormone therapy
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Can be continued after treatment
Inability to ejaculate
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Common after radiation therapy and some medications
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More common in men over 65 years old
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May disappear on its own after radiation therapy
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This happens to everyone after prostate removal because this organ produces seminal fluid
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If you have fertility concerns, discuss the sperm bank before treatment
Pain before, during or after orgasm (dysorgasmia)
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Rarely
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Usually disappears a few months after treatment
Coital urinary incontinence (loss of urine) during orgasm or during preparatory caresses
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Often half of men report one or both changes at least once after treatment
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It is usually temporary
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Emptying your bladder before sexual intercourse can be a good idea to avoid leakage
Rediscovering sexual intimacy takes patience, creativity, and practice
Intimacy is not just about erectile function and penetration. Could include:
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Kisses
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Massages
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Oral sex
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Mutual stimulation
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erotic games
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Dildos
Do you need support?
A sex therapist can help couples find methods to create intimacy in and out of the bedroom.
This educational resource was created with support from Bayer and Johnson & Johnson.
