Facing prostate cancer treatment or major abdominal surgery can be a challenging journey for any man. While the focus is often on recovery and managing the primary condition, there’s an aspect that’s sometimes overlooked but crucial for overall function: penile health.
Penile rehabilitation is a proactive approach aimed at maintaining or restoring erectile function after such surgeries. In this blog, I will discuss why penile rehabilitation is important and how it can positively impact the quality of life for men post-surgery.
So, what is it?
Penile rehabilitation refers to a series of interventions designed to optimise erectile function following prostate cancer treatment or major abdominal surgery. These interventions typically involve a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes medical devices or therapies. The goal is to prevent or minimise the risk of long-term erectile dysfunction (ED) by promoting blood flow, tissue health, and nerve function in the penis.
Common interventions used:
• Oral medications
Drugs such as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors like Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra may be prescribed to improve erectile function.
• Vacuum erection devices (VED)
Yes the penis pump! These devices use suction to draw blood into the penis, helping to achieve and maintain an erection. These are best used 4-6 weeks post-surgery (but can be used sooner if well and given the okay).
• Penile injections
These medications injected directly into the penis can stimulate blood flow and induce erections.
• Lifestyle modifications
Implementing a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also support erectile function as well as long term protection from other chronic conditions.
Why is it important if sexual activity is not a priority? 
A man’s penis undertakes its own exercise by causing morning and nighttime erections. It is to preserve function and use of the tissues. This can stop after prostate cancer treatment and major abdominal surgeries, such as those involving the removal of the bladder or colon.
Without regular erections, the penile tissue can undergo atrophy, leading to further difficulties in achieving erections in the future. Penile rehabilitation aims to mitigate this by preventing tissue damage and promoting blood flow to the penis, which can help maintain or restore erectile function.
Regaining confidence
Sexual health is closely linked to overall quality of life and for many men, the ability to engage in sexual activity is an essential aspect of their identity and relationships. Erectile dysfunction can lead to feelings of frustration, loss of self-esteem, and even depression. By addressing erectile function early through penile rehabilitation, men can regain confidence and a sense of normalcy in their lives.
Next steps
I hope you now understand that penile rehabilitation is a vital aspect of post-prostate cancer or major abdominal surgery care that is often overlooked but holds significant benefits for men’s overall well-being. By taking proactive steps to preserve or restore erectile function, men can improve their quality of life, maintain intimate relationships, and enhance their psychological health.
Check out My Integrated Health mens health services here or book an appointment to visit one of our clinics here.