After prostate surgery or treatment | Men 50+
Getting your sex life back after prostate surgery
Erection changes after a prostatectomy or other prostate treatment are very common, and recovery takes time. George Mulaudzi, Naturopath supports your recovery with a natural plan for circulation, pelvic floor strength, energy and confidence, alongside your urologist’s care.
Prostate surgery saves lives, but it can leave men feeling that part of who they are has been taken away. Erections may be weak or absent for months, climax feels different, bladder control can take time to settle, and confidence often takes a knock. Many men also find it hard to talk about, even with their partner.
The encouraging part is that recovery often continues for a long time after surgery, and the everyday factors you can influence, such as circulation, fitness, pelvic floor strength, sleep and stress, all matter. How erections recover after prostate surgery.
What can change after prostate surgery
Erections
The nerves beside the prostate are delicate. Even with nerve-sparing surgery they need time to recover, often 12 to 24 months.
Ejaculation and climax
After a radical prostatectomy, orgasm usually happens without semen. After some other prostate procedures, semen may flow back into the bladder.
Bladder control
Some leakage is common early on and usually improves. Pelvic floor training helps both bladder control and erection firmness.
Desire and confidence
Worry, low mood and fear of failing can dampen desire. These are a normal part of recovery and can be worked on.
How we support your recovery
Pelvic floor training
Guided exercises for the muscles that support bladder control and erection firmness, built up gradually.
Circulation and movement
Regular walking, strength work and steady blood sugar support blood flow to the penis. Metabolic health in men.
Nutrition and natural remedies
Food that supports blood vessels and recovery, with natural remedies chosen for you and checked against everything you take.
Fits around your rehab plan
Many urologists recommend tablets, a vacuum device or injections to help recovery. Your plan works alongside them. How vacuum devices are used.
Sleep, stress and mood
Recovery is harder when you are exhausted or anxious. Better sleep and stress support help energy, desire and confidence.
You and your partner
Practical ways to stay close while erections recover, and how to talk about it together. A guide for partners.
How we work with your urologist
George works alongside your urologist and GP. Your surgical follow-up, PSA checks and any rehabilitation medication stay with them, and your natural plan is built around their advice.
If a test would help, he’ll tell you exactly which one to ask for and help you understand the results.
How your recovery consultation works
1
Your story
Your surgery or treatment, when it happened, your current rehab plan, and how erections, bladder and desire are now.
2
The full picture
Circulation, blood sugar, weight, fitness, sleep, mood, medication and your relationship.
3
Your recovery plan
Pelvic floor work, movement, nutrition, natural remedies and confidence support, step by step.
4
Regular reviews
Follow-ups to track progress over the months ahead, or the 12-week programme for structured support.
Related support
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Track your recovery privately
Recovery questions
How long does it take for erections to return after prostate surgery?
It varies a great deal. The nerves that control erections are often stretched or bruised during a prostatectomy, and recovery commonly continues for 12 to 24 months. Age, erection quality before surgery, whether the nerves were spared and overall health all play a part.
When can I start a natural recovery plan?
Usually once your surgical team is happy with your healing, for example after the catheter is out. George asks about your surgery and follow-up plan and fits the timing around it.
Will natural remedies clash with my rehabilitation medication?
George checks everything you take, including any tablets, injections or devices your urologist has recommended, and builds your plan around them. Keep following your rehabilitation plan as advised.
Why is there no semen when I climax?
After a radical prostatectomy the prostate and seminal vesicles are removed, so orgasm usually happens without semen. Orgasm and pleasure are still possible, and this is something many men find helpful to talk through.
Can my partner be involved?
Yes, if you both want that. Recovery affects both of you, and partners are welcome to join part of the consultation.
Take back your confidence
Private, one-on-one recovery support in Sandton, open 24/7. Booking does not commit you to any treatment.
Sources
- Cornford P et al. EAU-EANM-ESTRO-ESUR-ISUP-SIOG Guidelines on Prostate Cancer, 2024 (functional outcomes after radical prostatectomy).
- Salonia A et al. EAU Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health, 2023 (erectile function after radical prostatectomy).
Written and reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath, Sandton Men’s Clinic, 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, Gauteng 2090 | +27 10 205 9208. This page is general information, not a diagnosis, and results differ from man to man.