Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder in men.

It is a leading cause of cancer deaths among men, and treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. While these treatments can be effective in treating the cancer, they can also have a significant impact on a man’s sexual function.

This article will explore the impact of prostate cancer treatment on sexual function and what men can do to manage this impact.

Surgery

Surgery is a common treatment option for prostate cancer. The most common surgery for prostate cancer is a radical prostatectomy, which involves removing the entire prostate gland.

While this can be an effective treatment option, it can also have a significant impact on sexual function. The most common side effect of a radical prostatectomy is erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection. This is because the nerves and blood vessels that control erections are often damaged during the surgery.

Other common side effects include a decrease in penis size and a decrease in the amount of semen produced during ejaculation.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is another common treatment option for prostate cancer. This involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Like surgery, radiation therapy can also have an impact on sexual function.

The most common side effect of radiation therapy is erectile dysfunction, which is often temporary. Other common side effects include a decrease in semen production and a decrease in sexual desire.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is a treatment option for prostate cancer that involves lowering the amount of testosterone in the body.

Testosterone is a hormone that is produced by the testicles and is responsible for the development of male sex organs and characteristics. By lowering the amount of testosterone in the body, hormone therapy can slow or stop the growth of prostate cancer. However, it can also have an impact on sexual function. The most common side effect of hormone therapy is a decrease in sexual desire.

Other common side effects include erectile dysfunction and a decrease in semen production.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment option for prostate cancer that involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. While chemotherapy is not commonly used for prostate cancer, it can be an effective treatment option in some cases.

Like the other treatment options, chemotherapy can also have an impact on sexual function. The most common side effect of chemotherapy is a decrease in sexual desire. Other common side effects include erectile dysfunction and a decrease in semen production.

Managing The Impact on Sexual Function

While the impact of prostate cancer treatment on sexual function can be significant, there are ways to manage this impact. One option is to speak with a healthcare provider about medications that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Another option is to try alternative treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or yoga, which may help improve sexual function. Additionally, couples therapy or counseling may be helpful in addressing any relationship issues that arise as a result of changes in sexual function.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer treatment can have a significant impact on sexual function, including erectile dysfunction, a decrease in sexual desire, and a decrease in semen production.

While these side effects can be difficult to manage, there are ways to address them. By speaking with a healthcare provider and exploring alternative treatments, men with prostate cancer can find ways to manage the impact on their sexual function and maintain a fulfilling sex life.