The Link Between ED and Prostate Cancer Treatment

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a potential complication after prostate cancer treatment. Sexual dysfunction after radical prostatectomy affects 25-75% of men.¹⁰

A Sex Life after Prostate Cancer

Nerve Sparing Recovery

The nerves that control an erection lie very close to the prostate, and may be injured during prostate cancer treatment. Prostate cancer treatments can affect your ability to get an erection on a temporary or permanent basis. If normal sexual function does not return, treatment options are available.

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Learn more about the connection between prostate cancer and ED

Which Comes First

The return to normal sexual function after prostate cancer treatment depends on your sex life before surgery, a supportive partner, the stage of your cancer, and the surgery itself. Many men begin to see a return to normal erections within 3 to 6 months of prostate cancer treatment.

Other men find that their erections do not return. Should ED persist, there are treatment options for every man.¹¹

Take Control

Your ED treatment may actually start before prostate cancer surgery with oral medications. A penis pump may be added after surgery to help increase blood flow to your penis during recovery. If ED persists, the penile implant may be an option. The implant is concealed inside the body and offers support for an erection whenever it is desired.

Seeking Support

Many patients find support from these organisations helpful during recovery after prostate cancer treatment. They may even have a support group in your area.

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

Prostate Cancer Support Groups

Did you know?

Sexual dysfunction after radical prostatectomy affects 25-75% of men.¹⁰

ED and Prostate Cancer Surgery

A complete prostatectomy is the complete removal of the prostate gland due to prostate cancer. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by damage to the nerves during surgery.

Recovery Takes Time

What does recovery mean to you? Some men define it as return to confident sex.¹⁴ It is common for men to start with oral medications before or after surgery. However, some medication may be effective in ONLY 30-60% of men after radical prostatectomy.¹⁰

Other treatment options include penile implants, vacuum devices and injections. Some treatments may be more effective than others for you. For men with long-term ED, penile rehabilitation may help.¹⁵

Achieving a Satisfying Sex Life

Finding a satisfying solution to ED can be a life-changing event for many men and their partners. Talk to your GP or urologist about all your treatment options.

Treatment Options

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