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SEXUAL FUNCTION AND BPH
An In-Depth Review of Sexual Function and BPH,
Including the Effect of BPH Treatments
by Neal Shore , MD, Myrtle Beach , SC
Medical science has yet to find an exact cause-and-effect relationship between enlarged prostate (BPH) and sexual dysfunction. But a 2003 study 1 shows a significantly higher risk of sexual dysfunction among men with BPH than those without BPH and even greater risk among those men with more severe BPH symptoms. For these reasons, a patient and physician should discuss sexual function. Even though some men (and physicians) are hesitant to discuss sexual function, an open discussion is the best way to make a wise and informed treatment choice. Some men who are treated for BPH may actually experience an improvement in sexual function.
The prostate plays a role in sexual function, producing 85%-90% of the fluid volume produced during ejaculation. Because the complex physiological mechanism involved in erection and ejaculation is not fully understood, scientists cannot yet explain why an enlarging prostate gland can impact sexual function. However, we know that worries about sexual function can impact a man’s sexual health and that the risk of sexual dysfunction in men increases with age.
Men affected by sexual dysfunction will report one or more of the following symptoms:
- Erectile dysfunction: difficulties achieving and/or maintaining an erection
- Ejaculation dysfunction: reduced volume, absence of ejaculation, or pain and/or discomfort during ejaculation
- Decreased libido: reduced interest in sexual activity
- Reduced overall satisfaction with sexual activity
Studies indicate that men with BPH who have normal sexual function are often concerned about how BPH treatment will affect their sexual function. In fact, sexual function is the critical issue for some men in their decision-making. For most men, sexual function remains stable following BPH treatment, with smaller numbers reporting either negative or positive changes.