Sex After Prostate Cancer Treatment: What to Expect

Prostate cancer treatment can significantly alter your sexual life. While it can impact your ability to ejaculate and have an orgasm, many men find that they can still have a satisfying sexual experience. Here's what you can expect during and after treatment.

Understanding Changes in Sexual Function

After prostate cancer treatment, you may still experience sensations in your penis, and can still have an orgasm. However, the experience might feel different from before. Some men may lose the ability to orgasm, especially if they are on hormone therapy. Sexual activities and pleasure can continue, but adjustments may be necessary.

Radical Prostatectomy

If you have had a radical prostatectomy, you will no longer ejaculate during orgasm. The prostate and seminal vesicles, which produce part of the fluid in semen, are removed during this procedure. Instead, you may have what is referred to as a dry orgasm, characterized by a strong sensation without any ejaculation. Occasionally, you might release a small amount of fluid from the tip of your penis, which could be fluid from the glands lining the urethra.

TURP and Radiotherapy

If you have had the treatment, known as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) or undergone radiotherapy, you may experience a condition called retrograde ejaculation. This means that the semen travels backward into the bladder during orgasm and is passed out of your body with urine, the next time you urinate. This condition is not harmful and should not affect your enjoyment of sex, although it may feel different from what you are accustomed to.

Administering the Pumps

For men who are unable to achieve an erection after prostate cancer treatment, a penile pump can be a helpful option. The pump works by sucking blood into the penis, creating an erection that can be sustained through sexual activity. This can be an empowering tool for regaining sexual confidence and satisfaction. Men have reported that the pump enhances their sexual experiences, sometimes even making orgasms more intense.

Managing Sexual Health Post-Treatment

While adjusting to these changes, it is important to communicate openly with your partner and medical team. Therapy, whether it's with a counselor or a urologist, can be beneficial. Understanding that this is a journey that may require time and patience can help navigate the emotional and physical aspects of recovery.

For further reading, you can refer to the articles:

Prostate Gland: Functions, Diseases, and Tests 4 Drugs Linked to Urinary Incontinence

Understanding the sexual healthand orgasm changes associated with prostate cancer treatment can help you and your partner manage the journey with greater awareness and support.