Benign prostatic hyperplasia, commonly referred to as BPH, is a common condition affecting many men as they age. As the prostate gland enlarges, it can cause urinary symptoms and affect overall quality of life. But one question that many men have when they receive a BPH diagnosis is whether it will affect their sex life.
In this article, we will explore what BPH is, who it affects, and how an enlarged prostate might impact a man’s sex drive or ability to have sex.
What Is BPH?
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
As the prostate gland grows, it can compress the urethra and cause urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, dribbling, frequent urination, and difficulty starting or stopping urination.
BPH is a common condition, with an estimated 50% of men over the age of 50 experiencing symptoms. By age 80, up to 90% of men may have an enlarged prostate.1
Who Does BPH Affect?
BPH is most commonly found in older men, and the risk increases with age. Other risk factors include a family history of BPH, obesity, and certain medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
While BPH is not a form of cancer and does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, the symptoms can be quite bothersome and may impact a man’s quality of life.
How can an enlarged prostate impact a man's sex life?
Unfortunately, for some men, BPH can affect their sex life. BPH has been associated with having an adverse effect on a man’s sexual function which gets worse as the BPH becomes more severe. Many men with severe BPH report having a lower libido, a harder time maintaining an erection, and lower levels of sexual satisfaction compared to those with less severe BPH.2 Age and genetics may play a factor, but there are a few other reasons men with BPH may experience a reduced sexual function too.
Anxiety over Your condition
The symptoms of BPH can have a psychological effect on a man’s sex drive. The urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate can lead to anxiety and embarrassment, which may affect a man’s sexual desire or ability to perform sexually. For example, frequent urination or urgency to urinate may interrupt sexual activity. The need to urinate during sex may cause anxiety and distract from the experience.
Medications
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat severe BPH symptoms. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a common procedure that involves removing a portion of the prostate gland to relieve pressure on the urethra.
While TURP can be an effective treatment for BPH, it can also have long-term effects on sexual function. In some cases, men may experience retrograde ejaculation, which is the release of semen into the bladder instead of out of the body during orgasm. This can impact fertility and sexual satisfaction.
If you are concerned about the effects on sexual function, but require surgery to treat BPH, you may want to ask your doctor about other types of surgery, such as TUIP (transurethral incision of the prostate), TUMT (transurethral microwave thermotherapy). Another option is a prostatic urethral lift, in which a stent is inserted in order to keep the tube that urine passes through open.
What can be done to minimize the impact of BPH on sex life?
It’s important to note that not all men with BPH will experience sexual difficulties. In fact, some studies have found that sexual function may not be significantly affected by BPH in many cases. It’s also possible for sexual function to improve after treatment for BPH, particularly if the symptoms were causing anxiety or discomfort.
However, if you are experiencing sexual difficulties related to BPH, it’s important to speak with your doctor. He or she will help you determine the best course of treatment and may be able to recommend strategies for managing sexual difficulties, such as adjusting medication or trying different positions during sexual activity.
If you have been diagnosed with BPH and are experiencing sexual difficulties, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact on your sex life. Here are a few tips:
- Talk to your healthcare provider: If you are experiencing sexual difficulties related to BPH or BPH medication, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend alternative treatments to minimize side effects. They may also recommend an erectile dysfunction medication, which in some cases can not only improve your ED, but also symptoms of your BPH too. Your doctor will be able to walk you through these options and determine if they may be a fit for you.
- Try different positions: If you are experiencing urinary symptoms during sex, try different positions that put less pressure on the bladder and urethra. For example, lying on your back with your knees bent or standing may be more comfortable than other positions.
- Practice good bladder habits: To minimize urinary symptoms during sex, try to empty your bladder before engaging in sexual activity. You may also want to avoid drinking large amounts of fluids before sex.
- Consider pelvic floor exercises: Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that support the bladder and bowel and may also help improve urinary and sexual function.
How To Cope With A Reduced Sexual Function Due To BPH
Coping with BPH and reduced sexual function can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Many men experience similar difficulties and there are resources available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your sexual health.
One important aspect of coping with BPH and sexual difficulties is communication with your partner. Talking openly and honestly about your concerns can help you both feel more connected and may even improve your intimacy. Your partner may be able to offer support and understanding and may be able to help you find ways to adapt to changes in sexual function.
It’s also important to remember that sexual function is just one aspect of a fulfilling relationship. There are many ways to be intimate with your partner that don’t involve sexual activity. For example, cuddling, kissing, and holding hands can help you feel closer and more connected.
If you are struggling to cope with BPH and reduced sexual function, there are resources available to help. Support groups, counseling, and sex therapy can all be helpful in managing symptoms and improving sexual health. Your healthcare provider may be able to recommend resources or provide referrals to specialists who can help.
Don't Wait To Seek Treatment
BPH is a common condition that can in some cases impact sexual function and intimacy. However, with the right treatment and support, it’s possible to manage symptoms and maintain a healthy, fulfilling sex life. If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, know that you are not alone. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about your options and to address any concerns related to sexual function. With the right treatment and support, you can take control of your health and enjoy a satisfying sex life.
3 Responses
What is the implication on your kidneys when not properly emptying your bladder. Can this result in some other consequences, particularly if you are diabetic?
Hola, he decidido operarme la HPB, esto me ayudara a mis problemas de ereccion debil y mejorar la libido en la relacion..?, ademas se que la eyaculacion se pierde con la operacion, esto tiene relacion con poder lograr el orgasmo..?
Muchas gracias por su ayuda
El masturbarse si tengo displasia benigna en grado 2 es malo?