How To Strengthen Prostate Post Prostatectomy For Sexual Performance
Prostatectomy is a surgery that involves removing part or all of the prostate gland. After this surgery, many men experience sexual dysfunction, which can be due to nerve damage or hormonal changes. However, there are several things you can do to strengthen your prostate and improve sexual performance after prostatectomy
Kegel Exercises After Prostatectomy
Kegel exercises are a type of pelvic floor exercise that can be helpful for men who have had a prostatectomy. These exercises can help strengthen the muscles that control urine flow and improve sexual function.
To perform Kegel exercises after prostatectomy, follow these steps:
Identify the muscles: To do Kegel exercises, you need to be able to identify the muscles that control urine flow. The easiest way to do this is to stop the flow of urine midstream. The muscles you use to do this are your pelvic floor muscles.
Start slowly: Start by contracting your pelvic floor muscles for a few seconds, then relax them. Repeat this several times in a row, trying to contract the muscles a little longer each time.
Increase frequency and duration: As you get more comfortable with Kegel exercises, increase the frequency and duration of your contractions. Try to work up to three sets of 10 contractions each day, holding each contraction for 10 seconds at a time.
Incorporate into daily routine: Make Kegel exercises a part of your daily routine. You can do them while sitting, standing, or lying down, and nobody will know you're doing them.
Be patient: It may take several weeks or even months to see improvement in urinary incontinence or sexual function, but with consistent effort, most men can see improvement over time.
It's important to note that Kegel exercises are not a substitute for medical treatment or advice. If you experience persistent urinary incontinence or sexual dysfunction after prostatectomy, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Vacuum Therapy After Prostatectomy
Vacuum therapy can be a highly effective, non-invasive treatment option for men who experience erectile dysfunction and/or nerve damage after a prostatectomy.
VEDs work by creating a vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the penis and causes an erection. The device consists of a plastic cylinder that fits over the penis, and a pump that creates the vacuum. If used for intercourse, a constriction ring is then placed around the base of the penis to maintain the erection. For the first few weeks, however, it is recommended to use the device without a constriction ring and not for intercourse.
To use a VED for vacuum therapy after a prostatectomy, follow these steps:
- Lubricate the base of the cylinder: Apply a water-based lubricant to the base of the cylinder to create a seal with your body.
- Place the cylinder over the penis: Hold the cylinder firmly against your body to create a seal.
- Slowly pump the device, waiting a few seconds between each pump to gradually and methodically draw the blood to the penis to create an erection.
- Once an erection is achieved, press the release valve on your VED (all medical grade versions should have one) to slowly let out the pressure.
- Repeat steps 2 - 4 as part of your daily recovery regimen, as recommended by your physician
It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a VED, and to talk to your doctor before starting this treatment option. While VEDs can be effective for some men, they may not be appropriate for everyone, and there may be risks or complications associated with their use. Your doctor can help you decide if VEDs are a good option for you based on your individual health and medical history.