$Unique_ID{BRK01472}
$Pretitle{Neoplasms, Genitourinary System}
$Title{What Effect Will Prostate Surgery Have On Sex Life?}
$Subject{prostate cancer surgery sex}
$Volume{B-15, J-15}
$Log{
Reproductive Anatomy of the Male*0006001.scf
Prostate Cancer*0007601.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.

What Effect Will Prostate Surgery Have On Sex Life?


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QUESTION:  My husband faces surgery for cancer of the prostate.  We realize
that this operation is a must, but we are also concerned about the effect it
will have on his manhood.  If he needs to have x-ray treatments after the
surgery, will the chances of it effecting his sex life be greater?  We think
we already have made the necessary decisions, but would very much appreciate
your discussion of this important personal matter for us.

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ANSWER:  Since prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in American
men at present, and affects more than 100,000 men each year, it is clear that
your concerns will be faced in many other families.  Although prostate cancer
is infrequent in men under the age of 50, it is seen in ever increasing
numbers until it becomes the most common cancer in men over 70.  The type of
treatment chosen; surgical removal, radiation therapy, hormone or anticancer
medication therapy will depend upon many factors.  These include the extent
(or "stage") of the cancer when it is diagnosed, the age of the patient as
well as other medical factors such as other conditions or illnesses which may
also be present.  In some cases, more than one type of treatment must be used
to deal effectively with the problem.  The ability of a man to experience
normal sexual relations after these interventions also depends in a large part
on his abilities before the treatments.  Again age and current medical and
physical condition will play a role as well as any medications being taken to
treat other conditions.  Following surgery (called radical prostatectomy)
Potency depends upon the ability of the surgeon to preserve the nerves and
blood vessels that are needed to assure erection.  Potency is maintained in
approximately 50 percent of men if the surgery can preserve these
neurovascular bundles.  In the case of radiation therapy, a process known as
fibrosis occurs as a result of the treatment.  This type of scarring can
affect the blood vessels and so effect sexual function.  Any hormone or
medication that lowers the levels of the male hormone testosterone will result
in lowered libido and usually a loss of potency as well.  Because there are so
many possible combinations of therapy, and factors which affect this problem,
a good "sit down" with your physician is your best bet for obtaining the exact
answer which may apply in your case.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
