Studies have shown approximately 13% of men have some regret about their prostate cancer treatment decisions. While options such as a prostatectomy (prostate removal surgery) have an incredibly high success rate in terms of beating the cancer, there can be side effects such as urinary leakage and decline in sexual function that impact men’s quality of life. While there are research-backed options to improve and/or fully resolve these consequences, many men are not given adequate information or resources to make steady, meaningful gains. Working with a team of providers including a pelvic floor physical therapist or men’s health coach, sexual health coach, andrologist, and mental health therapist can help you reach your goals and make sure you are not only cancer-free, but can enjoy the life you saved.

Leaking urine after any surgery to the prostate is fairly common, especially in the first 1-2 weeks post-op. A prostatectomy, where the prostate is removed, impacts the nerves and muscles, both of which can take time to heal. Therefore, leaking often persists for several weeks to months. However, specific strengthening, improving your breathing strategies, using good body mechanics, optimizing bowel health, and paying attention to your overall body composition can all help support your recovery. By improving the strength of your pelvic floor and decreasing the strain on the urinary system overall, you can reduce or eliminate your urinary leakage.

Most men will experience erectile dysfunction after a radical prostatectomy, at least temporarily. Men who have had natural erections pre-surgery are likely to regain erectile function with a dedicated recovery plan, while men who had pre-existing erectile dysfunction, had a non-nerve-sparing procedure, or who have had long periods of disuse may have more difficulty with erectile function after surgery. To improve erectile function, treatments like medications (Cialis, Viagra, Levitra), vacuum erection devices (VED), and pelvic floor muscle training can all be effective. Plus, findings ways to maintain or improve intimacy even without an erection can be a huge part of maintaining connection and fun while you recover.