Having Trouble with an Erection After Surgery?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can arise from a number of factors. One of them is a radical prostatectomy, in which the entire prostate gland is removed as a treatment for prostate cancer. 

Researchers report that up to 85% of men who undergo this life-saving procedure experience erectile dysfunction afterward. So, if you’ve had a radical prostatectomy, you may have trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. 

But this doesn’t mean your sex life has come to an end. In fact, there are several things you can do to regain your sexual health and mitigate symptoms of ED.

Lifestyle Changes You Can Do to Boost Your Erection

Healthy lifestyle changes like becoming more active, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can improve your sex drive along with your ability to get an erection. 

Another way to keep your penis healthy is strengthening your pelvic floor. These muscles run from your tailbone to your pubic bone, so certain exercises can ensure healthy blood flow to this area. 

Also, since stress only worsens symptoms of ED, it can be extremely helpful to engage in activities for managing stress like yoga or meditation. 

Medications That Can Help with Erections

Well-known medications like Viagra or Cialis work by increasing blood flow to the penis. These medications have shown success for men with prostate cancer, but only those who haven’t suffered nerve damage from the surgery or radiation therapy. Your doctor can tell you if you belong to this group, and how it can affect your recovery. 

It’s important to note that ED medications don’t just cause immediate erections. In order for them to work, the individual still needs to be aroused by some sort of stimulation or foreplay. 

Vacuum Constriction Devices to Consider 

Also known as penis pumps, these devices can help achieve erections by pulling blood into the penis. Though they typically cost less than other treatments, penis pumps can only allow you to maintain an erection for 10 to 15 minutes at the very most.

Counseling to Improve Erectile Dysfunction

Talking with a mental health professional is a powerful way to deal with the heavy emotions that stem from ED. It provides a safe space to speak honestly about how ED is affecting you and/or your relationship.  

As a Board-Certified Sex and Intimacy Therapist, I’ve helped many couples make adjustments to their sex life and maintain an intimate relationship following an ED diagnosis. So, if you’re suffering from ED or other issues affecting your ability to get or keep an erection, get in touch with me today. 

You’d be surprised by how helpful it can be to talk to someone with no fear of judgment or shame.

Schedule a free 15-minute consult today to see what options you have to get back into action. 

With Excitement,

Gabriela

p.s. I’m offering in-person and virtual sessions in Austin, Texas as well as virtual sessions for those living in Texas or Florida.