Aug, 23 2025
Can avanafil help ED when there’s curvature, scarring, or nerve injury? Clear, evidence-based guide on who benefits, how to use it, safety, and next steps.
Post-Prostatectomy ED: What You Need to Know
If you’ve had a prostate operation and notice changes in your erections, you’re not alone. Many men face erectile dysfunction (ED) after surgery because the nerves and blood flow that help an erection can be affected. The good news is there are practical steps you can take right away to improve things.
Why ED Happens After Prostate Surgery
The prostate sits close to nerves that control erections. During a radical prostatectomy those nerves may get stretched, bruised, or even cut. Even when the surgeon tries to spare them, some temporary damage is common. This can lead to weaker erections or none at all for weeks or months.
Other factors add up too. Pain medication, reduced testosterone, and anxiety about performance can make the problem feel bigger. It’s a mix of physical and mental reasons, so tackling both sides works best.
Treatment Options That Work
Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) are often the first recommendation. Tightening the muscles you use to stop urine flow, holding for three seconds, then relaxing, a few times a day can boost blood flow and nerve recovery. Start with five repetitions and build up to 20 as it gets easier.
PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra are safe for many men after surgery. They help the blood vessels relax so more blood reaches the penis. Talk to your doctor about dosing; sometimes a lower dose works fine, and you can adjust later.
If pills alone aren’t enough, injection therapy (Alprostadil) or a vacuum erection device are solid backup options. They sound more technical than they feel, but most men learn to use them quickly and see good results.
Hormone checks matter too. Low testosterone can keep erections from improving. A simple blood test lets your doctor know if a hormone patch or gel could help.
Don’t forget the mental side. Talking with a partner, seeing a therapist, or joining a support group can lower anxiety and improve confidence. Many men find that sharing their experience makes recovery smoother.
Finally, give your body time. Nerve healing can take six months to a year. Keep up the exercises, stay on medication as advised, and track progress in a journal. Small improvements add up.
If you’re unsure where to start, schedule a follow‑up with your urologist. Ask about nerve‑sparing techniques, get prescriptions for PDE5 inhibitors if needed, and request a referral to a pelvic floor therapist.