NAVIGATING SYMPTOMS AFTER PROSTATE CANCER
Life after prostate cancer treatment is no easy journey. Many men are unaware of potential challenges like urinary incontinence and disrupted sexual function.
Join Dr. William Mills, PT, DPT, and Pelvic health expert Dr. Susie Gronski, PT, DPT for a deep dive into male pelvic & sexual health post-prostate cancer.
Delaying Treatment:
It’s unfortunately common for men to delay making the decision to seek pelvic floor treatment. Without rehabilitation, you risk continuing to deal with these symptoms and allow them to impact your life for longer than necessary. Many men also resort to exercises, like Kegels, without proper instruction. When concerns are not addressed early on, they can become more difficult to treat as time goes on, leading to unnecessary suffering and reduced quality of life.
Prostate Cancer Rehabilitation Options:
It's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of post-treatment rehabilitation for prostate cancer. While the key decision may be deciding between radiation and prostatectomy, there are many decisions for post-treatment care. Urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction are common with post prostate cancer. By addressing urinary incontinence and sexual function using a multidisciplinary approach (For example: pelvic floor therapy, sex therapy, and nutrition therapy) you’ll have the proper guidance and support for optimizing recovery.
Intimacy After Prostate Treatment:
Some men experience a reduced sensation in their penis and erectile dysfunction, feeling less connected to physical stimuli and their sexual selves. Nerve injury and diminished blood circulation, which can be a result of prostate cancer treatment like prostatectomy, can lead to reduced penis sensation and erectile dysfunction. Penile vibratory therapy, a penis pump, and medications are just a few treatment options that can help in improving blood circulation and erectile function. An individualized approach is best.
Urinary Incontinence After Prostate Treatment:
Many men experience urinary incontinence, a challenge that can profoundly disrupt daily activities. Its effects become more pronounced post-prostatectomy, especially if pelvic floor rehabilitation is overlooked. By emphasizing hydration, behavioral bladder habits, and functional pelvic floor exercises, the severity of incontinence symptoms can be reduced. Proactively seeking knowledge and tailored rehabilitation strategies enables patients to regain urinary control, enhancing their post-treatment quality of life.
This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding treatment, medications/supplements, or any medical diagnoses. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is in no way to substitute the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
