Prostate cancer and erections

[Frankandhazel]

I had prostate brachytherapy about a year ago. Will I ever be able to have an erection again?

[BerkshireBear]

Frank, While your results are disappointing so far there is always a chance. Most of us have had to learn to deal with a lesser form of erection, but it may still happen again. Drugs like Viagra & Cialis, vacuum pumps, injections, and ultimately penis implants are all useful, each of us is different in what works best. Remember, some guys have reported that the healing process extends out to 24 months or even longer, so it's not time to give up hope. Have you asked your urologist to send you to a doctor who specializes in sexual health? Some of the major clinics have doctors who are very adept at diagnosing unseen problems and finding ways to help you. Clearly, it's late in the game for you, this sort of help is better if it can happen in the first few months after your treatment; so don't delay. If you give your location, perhaps someone here can help find someone in your area.

[Hidden]

Hi Frank,

I didn't have your treatment, but I certainly feel for you. I haven't been able to get it up for about five years now. My new uro says he's going to work on the mechanical part after my plumbing part is fixed. I was quite surprised to hear that, my old uro didn't give a turd. I would press my Uro, knowing what I know now. Good Luck too you.

Joe

[Mrkharn]

Good question. I posted a similar question regarding onset of ED after cyber knife.

Mark

[DenDoc]

Frank. Lots of factors involved here. Age:Many men lose their erectile function just with age. Other diseases:Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease and other may affect ED. Psychological:Many men have issues about anything impacting sexual function and get anxious. Sensory:I had brachytherapy 15 years ago and one of the first things that changed was the sensation during sexual intercourse. Supportive Partner:Some women do not understand why we cannot perform like we used to no matter what the cause.

Others on this site have suggested going to see a specialty clinic that works with sexual health-totally agree. Many urologists are not even comfortable advising and others have no real expertise. They are good at surgery!

[Mrkharn]

DenDoc,

Agreed. I didn't discuss it with the urologist after radiation. He's a great guy but. ... We just didn't get around to discussing that topic.

Mark

[JoelT]

We can not know what your future holds, but trying to be realistic, each passing month lowers your chance of recovering an erection. With radiation most men find that the side effects develop later on until they eventually stabilize (find where they are going to end up).

Given this fact, you most likely will not see any significant improvement. As suggested, If you have not yet seen a doctor who specializes in sexual rehab you should go see them ASAP. The longer you wait the less chance of any recovery.

There are a number of remedies available that might help you. They include Viagra, Cialis, muse suppositories, Intracavernous injection therapy and a mechanical implant.

If you are interested in learning more about the types and functioning of the implants, I have a pod cast that you will find interesting ( #4 at itunes.apple.com/us/podcast... ) By the way,if you do find the pod cast helpful, please leave feedback and a great rating.

Joel