Introduction
Prostate removal, also known as a prostatectomy, is a surgical procedure to treat prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. The removal of the prostate gland can have crucial effects on a man’s physical, emotional, and sexual health. Hence, it’s good to be well-informed about the recovery process and changes to expect after the surgery. This article highlights the 7 things men should know about normal life after prostate removal.
Also, this article shows what to expect during the prostate removal recovery process. Understanding these changes and being prepared for them can help in a smoother transition and ensure a quicker recovery.
What To Consider When Preparing For Prostate Removal?
The prostate gland is an organ in the male reproductive system found just below the bladder. It is small in size, about the size of a walnut. Getting your prostate removed can be because of two main reasons, Prostate cancer or having an enlarged prostate[1].
Preparing for prostate removal side effects can be a challenging and emotional journey, but being informed and understanding the process can help you feel more at ease.
Here are some things you should know before undergoing prostate removal surgery:
1. Understanding The Reason For Surgery
Understand why you are undergoing prostate removal surgery, whether it be for cancer or an enlarged prostate. It helps you make informed decisions about your care and treatment.
2. Choosing The Right Surgeon
It’s best to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who specializes in prostate removal surgery. Your doctor can provide recommendations, or you can research and ask for referrals from others who have undergone the procedure.
3. Discussing Treatment Options
Your doctor will discuss different treatment options, including surgical and non-surgical options. It’s advisable to understand the risks and benefits of each option and make an informed decision.
4. Pre-Surgery Evaluation
Before the surgery, you’ll undergo a physical examination and medical tests to determine your overall health and fitness for the procedure. You may also have to stop certain medications and follow a specific diet.
5. Discussing The Risks And Benefits
Generally, most prostate removal procedures are successful. However, some prostate removal side effects include bleeding, infections, and reactions to anesthesia. Discuss the risks and benefits of prostate removal surgery with your doctor, including any potential complications and the recovery process.
6. Planning For Recovery
Plan ahead for your recovery, including taking time off work, arranging for help with household tasks, and preparing for any necessary lifestyle changes.
7. Emotional Preparation
Prostate removal surgery can be a difficult and emotional experience. Taking care of your emotional well-being and seeking support from loved ones, friends, or a consultant during your prostate removal recovery process is vital.
By staying informed and preparing for the prostate removal recovery journey, you can feel more confident and at ease during the process.
7 Important Things About Life Changes After Prostate Removal
The prostate plays a vital role in men’s sexual life. Nevertheless, men can survive without a prostate but for men, life changes after prostate removal. Men who get their prostate removed experience problems such as erectile dysfunction, low sexual drive, and other anomalies.
Recent studies claim that nearly half of the men above 60 years suffer from BPH (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia) or enlarged prostate. These are likely to be accompanied by prostate cancer, whose only treatment option is prostate removal. The number of prostate cancer cases has continuously increased over the years. According to some studies, aging is more common to the increase in prostate cancer cases. Also, factors such as hormonal changes, high cholesterol intake, and some metabolic problems can lead to prostate cancer.
Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland in men. This procedure treats prostate cancer or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). While prostate removal can be an effective treatment option, it is good to understand what normal life after prostate removal looks like.
Here are 7 key things to know about life changes after prostate removal:
1. Urinary Incontinence
Changes in your urinary and sexual functions are one of the most significant changes you may experience after prostate removal. It can be disturbing and the most common complication of prostatectomy. This condition is a result of nerve damage around the urinary valve. Weak or damaged nerves around the urinary valve lead to increased chances of urine leakage and poor control. Urinary incontinence and difficulty starting or stopping urination can occur after surgery, but these symptoms usually improve over time.
2. Sexual Function
Prostate removal can also affect sexual function, causing impotence (erectile dysfunction) in some men. Surgeons usually opt for less invasive surgeries to try and spare nerves. In some cases where prostate cancer requires radical proctectomy[2], they have no option but to remove most of the tissue surrounding the prostate gland, and nerve damage, in this case, is inevitable.
The recovery of sexual function varies from person to person and can take several months or longer. Some men may need to use erectile dysfunction medications or undergo additional treatments to restore their sexual function and normal life after prostate removal.
3. Urinary Tract Infections
Generally, people who have had their prostate removed may be more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs). The prostate gland helps to prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract. So, it’s good to drink plenty of fluids and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of UTIs.
4. Fatigue
Fatigue is a common side effect of prostate removal and can persist for several weeks or months after the surgery. Getting plenty of rest, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, are vital to conquer fatigue.
5. Pain
Some people experience pain after prostate removal, particularly in the lower abdomen and groin area. You can manage pain with over-the-counter pain medications and other therapies, such as physical therapy.
6. Emotional Well-Being
Prostate removal can have a major impact on your emotional well-being, as the surgery and its aftermath can be stressful and overwhelming. Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional, is essential.
7. Return To Normal Routine
There must be life changes after prostate removal before you return to normal life duties. But most people can return to normal activities, including work and exercise, within a few weeks or months. To be safe, follow your doctor’s instructions and take all the time you need to recover fully.
Life after prostate removal can involve changes and challenges like changes in urinary and sexual function, recovery time, pain, discomfort, and emotional impact. With the proper support and care, most people can return to their normal life. Always maintain a healthy diet, stay physically active, attend follow-up appointments, and seek support as needed.
So, if you’re experiencing any symptoms or side effects, talk to your doctor and seek appropriate treatment. With time and patience, you can regain your strength, health, and well-being.
What May Happen After Prostate Removal
Prostate removal, also known as a prostatectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland. The surgical procedure is to treat prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia.
It is a major surgery that affects urinary and sexual function, so patients need to know what to expect after the procedure. Knowing the prostate removal side effects is crucial to your recovery.
In the first few weeks after surgery, patients may experience discomfort and swelling. Further, they may experience urinary incontinence and the need to use a catheter. However, these symptoms usually subside within a few weeks. In the long term, patients may experience changes in sexual function[3]. These can include erectile dysfunction, a decrease in libido, and changes in ejaculation. However, these changes can vary from person to person, and some patients may not experience any noticeable changes.
Also, patients must understand that the recovery process is different for everyone and can take several months to a year. During this time, patients may need to make lifestyle changes and adjust to their new normal. So, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and address any prostate removal side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, normal life after prostate removal can be an adjustment. It’s important to be aware of the physical and emotional changes that may occur, including incontinence, impotence, and pain. Regular check-ups with your doctor help monitor your recovery and address any ongoing issues.
For an easier transition, talk to your doctors about your concerns and follow their instructions. Again, support from friends, family, and support groups can be invaluable in helping you cope with the changes. Remember, with time and proper care, you can return to a fulfilling life.
