ERECTION AFTER PROSTATE SURGERY: DRY EJACULATION

March 27, 2009, 6:25 am

It’s important to know that after either type of prostate surgery, a man will retain his ability to feel an orgasm, but he won’t ejaculate any fluid. Because the prostate produces part of the fluid a man ejaculates, after surgery he has less fluid to discharge; what does come out goes back into the bladder. This isn’t harmful, and the ejaculated fluid simply mixes with urine and is discharged when the man voids.

Some research suggests that just knowing what to expect after prostate surgery can help a man keep his potency. So here’s our advice for prostate patients.

• Be sure you understand why the doctor is recommending prostate surgery.

• Specifically, ask how it will affect your sexual functioning. Make sure you get a clear and comprehensive answer.

• If you’re having a radical prostatectomy, make sure your doctor is familiar with the new nerve-sparing methods. Some large tumors cannot be treated this way; if your physician advises against the new techniques, be sure you understand the reasons, Make sure you understand the pros and cons of any alternative treatment.

• Make sure your wife understands the procedure and the amount of time it will take you to recover. Encourage herto discuss with you and the doctor any concerns she may have.

For those patients who do lose potency after prostate surgery, penile prostheses or penile shots (discussed in chapters 7 and can enable a man to get and maintain an erection.