Life after prostate cancer can pose unique challenges. Treatment may be complete, but your physical and emotional healing continues.
There are ways to manage the changes that can come with prostate cancer recovery. Here are four post-treatment changes I often see in my practice — and how you can move forward.
1. Sexual concerns
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a top concern for my patients. The nerves and blood vessels that contribute to erections can be damaged by prostate cancer treatment. And scar tissue can limit erectile function.
ED can continue to improve for up to two years after surgery. But it’s possible that your function won’t return to what was normal for you before treatment.
We have a number of options for addressing ED. For many people, medications are a good first treatment. They’re inexpensive, and if they don’t work, we move on. Other therapies that can rebuild sexual function include:
- Penile rehabilitation
- Vacuum constriction devices
- Penile injections
- Couples therapy
- Sex therapy
- Physical therapy to strengthen the pelvic floor
For some, a penile implant may be the most effective long-term solution. These are safe, discreet devices that can restore spontaneity and confidence. At the Fox Chase-Temple Urologic Institute, we are internationally recognized for our expertise in penile implant surgery and serve as a destination center for patients from across the country and around the world. Our goal is to normalize this option and to ensure patients understand it is a dignified, effective treatment – not a last resort.
2. Urinary and bowel problems
Urinary incontinence is a common side effect from prostate surgery. For most people, this is leaking when laughing, coughing, or sneezing. This stress incontinence tends to improve in the months after surgery, and I suggest wearing pads while you heal.
Biofeedback and Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor can help with urinary issues. But again, if more intense therapy is needed, Temple is the place to be.
Radiation, in particular, can lead to issues months or years down the road. Long-term side effects we see include:
- Scar tissue buildup that decreases how much urine your bladder can hold
- Increased risk of urinary tract infection
- Bleeding from the bladder lining, signaled by urinary frequency or urgency
- Bowel dysfunction, like diarrhea, inability to control bowel movements, or rectal bleeding
Talk to your urologist if you experience any of these symptoms. Know, too, that simple changes like increasing your fiber intake can help improve bowel function. You can also take antidiarrheal medications for frequent stools.
In summary, we are recognized globally for our expertise in continence management. At the Fox Chase-Temple Urologic Institute, we offer the full spectrum of medical and surgical options to restore bladder control and improve quality of life. Our team is among the most experienced in the world in advanced surgical therapies for incontinence, including male slings, artificial urinary sphincters, and adjustable continence balloons. These procedures are safe, highly effective, and tailor to your individual needs.
3. Exhaustion
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is not just in your mind. It’s a recognized symptom of cancer. It can make you feel tired in a way that doesn’t improve, no matter how much you sleep. You might get worn out more easily, feel cranky, or have trouble concentrating.
CRF can be caused by:
- Cancer treatment
- Anemia
- Pain
- Emotional distress
- Medication
- Difficulty sleeping
- Poor nutrition
Your fatigue may vary from day to day. But CRF eventually gets better. Here are some ways you can cope with physical and emotional fatigue after your cancer treatment:
- Be physically active
- Maintain a daily routine
- Sleep seven to eight hours each night
- Stay hydrated
- Schedule important activities when you have the most energy
If you’re too tired to get out of bed or your fatigue is getting worse, talk to your Temple care team. Medication, sleep therapy, and nutrition counseling can make a difference.
4. Emotional well-being
Completing prostate cancer treatment is a major milestone – but it can come with complex emotions. Fear, anxiety, and sadness are all natural responses to the changes cancer brings. Many people worry about recurrence, struggle with shifting identities, or feel overwhelmed as they navigate their “new normal.”
At the Fox Chase-Temple Urologic Institute, we believe survivorship is just as important as cancer treatment. That means prioritizing not only your physical recovery, but also your emotional and psychological well-being. We’re here to support you in living fully – not just surviving, but thriving.
Whether through one-on-one counseling, peer support groups, or spiritual care, we help you find tools to manage uncertainty, regain confidence, and reconnect with what brings you joy. Life after prostate cancer can be rich, meaningful, and fulfilling – and we’re with you every step of the way.
Ongoing care you can count on
You don’t have to settle for long-term symptoms after prostate cancer. Your Fox Chase-Temple Urologic Institute team is always available, even when active cancer treatment is done. And we offer innovative treatments to resolve side effects and improve your quality of life. If you experience any challenges after prostate cancer care, talk to your care team, or request a consultation with our urologic reconstructive surgery team.
To make an appointment, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or request an appointment online.
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