Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland, which sits below the bladder in people assigned male at birth.

In some cases, untreated prostate cancer may cause erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is when you experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection hard enough for sexual intercourse.

However, the most common association between prostate cancer and ED is due to prostate cancer treatment. Some research suggests that 8% to 90% of people who undergo prostate cancer treatment may experience ED.

The prevalence of ED after prostate cancer treatment depends on several factors, such as the type of prostate treatment you receive and your sexual function before treatment.

The following prostate cancer treatments may lead to ED:

Prostate cancer treatment may lead to ED in several ways.

The most common cause during surgery is damage to the nerves surrounding the prostate that play a key role in achieving and maintaining an erection.

Other therapies, such as radiation treatments, may cause ED by damaging the nerves, blood vessels, or muscles surrounding the prostate. Blood vessels supply blood to the penis, while the muscles help to maintain an erection.

A third possible cause of ED is hormonal treatments, which may lower your level of testosterone. This is the hormone that helps with achieving and maintaining an erection and regulating your sex drive.

Healthcare professionals now opt for “nerve-sparing” prostate cancer treatments when possible to help lower the risk of side effects like ED.

What is the outlook for ED from prostate cancer?

Your outlook for ED after prostate cancer treatment will depend on the type of treatment you receive, the stage of your cancer, and your sexual function before treatment.

Most people will experience short-term ED after prostate cancer treatment, and it may take up to 3 years to recover.

However, radiation therapy may cause ED gradually, with symptoms only starting 3 years after treatment.

More long-term studies are needed to understand the outlook of ED after prostate cancer treatment.

Treatment for ED will depend on the underlying cause and mechanism. A healthcare professional can help develop the best treatment plan for you, which may include:

If you experience difficulty maintaining or achieving an erection and have prostate cancer, speak with a doctor. They can develop a plan to help manage your symptoms and improve the quality of your sex life.