The prostate gland contributes to healthy sexual function. In turn, prostate problems can lead to sexual dysfunction. Your health care provider can diagnose your prostate problems through a medical examination. With proper treatment, problems with both your prostate and sexual function can be cured or managed.
Prostate Function
The prostate is a small gland that's wrapped around the urethra where it meets the bladder. All of the prostate's functions aren't completely understood, but its main function seems to be the secretion of nutrients for semen. During ejaculation, the prostate secretes fluid, which mixes with the semen and is excreted through the urethra. Nutrients from the prostate allow sperm to live longer inside the vagina, helping them to complete their reproductive function.
Prostate-Related Sexual Problems
Most prostate problems---including prostatitis, benign prostate hyperplasia and prostate cancer---cause the prostate gland to swell or enlarge. This can constrict the urethra and prevent ejaculate from being expressed. Prostate problems can also cause pain or burning during ejaculation, or make it difficult to obtain an erection. This is particularly true with prostate cancer or benign prostate hyperplasia that requires surgery. Radiation therapy and prostate removal surgery can both damage the nerve cells required to obtain and maintain an erection.
Prostate Exam
If you have problems completing sexual acts or experience pain during sex, see your health care provider for diagnosis. If he suspects your prostate is the cause, he will often examine your prostate for abnormal swelling or growth. During a prostate exam, he will ask you to stand with your feet apart and bend slightly. Using a sterile glove and a bit of lubricant, your health care provider will then insert his finger into your anus. You may feel mild pressure and discomfort, but it shouldn't be painful. Once inside, he will use his finger to examine your prostate gland for anything unusual. After the prostate exam, your health care provider may also ask for a urine sample for further analysis.
Sex During Prostate Treatment
If your health care provider determines that your prostate is causing sexual problems, he will treat the prostate in hopes that the sexual dysfunction will clear up. Depending on the cause of your prostate problem, he may prescribe antibiotics, advise prostate massage or suggest surgery. Whatever the condition, you will be advised not to have sex during treatment. In most cases, it will be at least a few weeks before you're cleared for sexual activity. Your health care provider can give you a more specific time frame based on your specific condition.
Promoting a Healthy Prostate
Preventing your prostate from causing sexual dysfunction begins with keeping your prostate healthy. Maintain good hygiene by keeping your genitals clean and dry. While some people think that having frequent sex can prevent prostate problems, there is no research to substantiate this claim. Some have also promoted taking supplements for prostate health, such as saw palmetto extract. However, the American Urological Association, the leading source on male reproductive health, doesn't recommend these supplements because they haven't been proven to be beneficial. This doesn't mean that you can't take them, but check with your health care provider beforehand. Have your prostate examined regularly so that if you experience any problems, they can be treated before they begin to affect your sexual health.
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