BPH & Sexual Concerns
It’s only natural to have concerns about how sexual function might be affected by
BPH. That’s why it’s important to talk to your doctor about all of your concerns—as
treatment may also cause sexual side effects.
Common sexual concerns:
Impotence – Some medications or surgical procedures
may cause impotence, or the inability to have an erection. Surgery for BPH rarely
causes long-term impotence. If a man was able to maintain an erection shortly before
surgery, he will probably be able to have erections afterward.
Ejaculation – Both surgery and medications may cause
a condition known as Retrograde Ejaculation. When this occurs, semen exits into
the bladder instead of out of the penis during orgasm and later leaves the body
during urination.
Decreased libido – Some medications may reduce the
sex drive.
Keep in mind:
Complete recovery from symptoms caused by surgery can take up to one year.
The length of time for recovery depends on:
When the surgery was performed
How soon after the surgery the symptoms appeared
The type of surgery that was performed
Concern about sexual function can often interfere with performance as much as treatment
itself. Men may be able to regain sexual function earlier by understanding how their
medication works or by talking to their doctor before treatment. Some men also find
it helpful to speak to a counselor after treatment.