Many man with prostate cancer undergo radiation therapy using a high dose of radiation to damage prostate cancer cells, leading to cancer cell death and remission. Radiation can be applied in the form of an external beam or applied internally to irradiate the tumor from within. Internal radiation, called brachytherapy, deposits radioactive beads into the prostate tumor to target cancer cells. While effective in fighting prostate cancer, men who undergo brachytherapy may experience a number of sexual side effects due to treatment.
Erectile Dysfunction
A common sexual side effect of prostate cancer brachytherapy is erectile dysfunction, the inability to achieve or maintain an erection. An erection relies partially on the activation of nerves in the pelvis that trigger blood flow into the penis, causing the erection. During brachytherapy, these nerves become exposed to radiation and undergo damage, ultimately leading to erectile dysfunction. The Radiation Medical Group indicates that erectile dysfunction after treatment may resolve itself over time, depending on the age and overall health of the patient. Patients suffering erectile dysfunction after brachytherapy may also respond to erectile dysfunction medication, such as Viagra.
Change in Penis Size
Another possible side effect of prostate cancer brachytherapy is a shortening of the penis. Since the prostate is located at close proximity to the urethra, prostate cancer brachytherapy often affects the urethra. The Prostate Cancer Treatment Guide indicates that radioactive bead deposition can shorten the urethra, which in turn shortens the penis. Additionally, exposure to radiation itself during treatment can also shorten the penis.
Changes in Ejaculate
Since the prostate fluid, normally secreted by the prostate gland, forms a significant part of semen, changes in the prostate gland due to brachytherapy can affect ejaculate. The Prostate Cancer Charity indicates that men who have undergone prostate brachytherapy typically produce less fluid during ejaculation. This may be due to decrease prostate activity, leading to an overall decrease in the production of prostate fluid. Although changes in the volume of ejaculate after prostate brachytherapy are common, the effects of brachytherapy on the fertility and mobility of sperm in ejaculate is not yet known. Men concerned with fertility following prostate brachytherapy should consult with a physician and consider sperm banking prior to treatment to avoid fertility issues.
