Urology Care Foundation - My Erectile Dysfunction Story

Advertisement

Centro de recursos Patient Magazine Podcast Donate

My Erectile Dysfunction Story

My Erectile Dysfunction Story

By: Chuck (On behalf of the Urology Care Foundation) | Posted on: 10 Jun 2020


Man and woman smiling

My Erectile Dysfunction (ED) was a result of the radical prostatectomy surgery I had for prostate cancer more than a decade ago.

I first tried a vacuum pump to improve blood flow to my penis. It worked for a while, but for me, the compression was painful.

Then I tried my first surgery for ED. I opted to get an inflatable penile prosthesis. That prosthesis was a big disappointment at first. I didn't know there were size choices, so I wasn't fitted correctly.

Fortunately, I was able to find a new doctor who told me about larger cylinders for the implant. My doctor was able to correct the size, but I also had to deal with several mechanical failures. The implant would require repairs when it wouldn't inflate.

I'm on my fifth revision now, with a new implant. Everything is working well. I realize that my case - with so many surgeries - is unusual. My experience has taught me that it's important to start with an experienced surgeon. Experience will raise the rate of satisfaction for men with a penile implant.

As I look back, I realize it's important to know what you're getting into before you begin. I would tell a new patient:

  • If you consider an implant, make sure you work with a surgeon who's done this surgery and has had successful outcomes. Just being a doctor is not enough. Experience is everything.
  • It's very important to do exactly what the surgeon tells you. If they tell you not to have intercourse for six weeks...don't do it. The costs could be severe. If I can follow directions, you can too!
  • Be aware that after cancer surgery, you may lose sensation or it may be harder to climax with an implant.
  • Try to talk with people who've already had the procedure. You can learn how they're doing. I wish more doctors would insist that patients talk with someone who's had the procedure before they move forward.

Bottom line: your love life can return. If you have ED, you should ask about what's available and learn as much as you can about helpful treatments and how they work.


Explore Further

Share Your Story

Have a story to share? The Urology Care Foundation invites you to share your experience with a urologic condition and how it has affected you or your family.

Make a Differnece

Your tax-deductible gift will help support the millions of patients who are faced with urologic disease. Together, we care.