When Can ED Occur Following Prostate Cancer Treatment?
• Radical prostatectomy. Erectile dysfunction can begin immediately following the removal of the entire prostate and surrounding tissues, whether the nerve-sparing or non-nerve-sparing technique is used. If the nerve-sparing technique is used, recovery from ED may occur within the first year following the procedure. Recovery of erectile function after a non-nerve-sparing technique is unlikely but is possible. • Radiation therapy. The onset of ED following radiation therapy is gradual and usually begins about six months following treatment. Without ED treatment, ED is usually permanent. • Hormone therapy. When hormone therapy is used, ED may occur approximately 2-4 weeks following the initiation of the therapy and is usually accompanied by a decreased desire for sex. Without ED treatment, ED is usually permanent.
