Among the various diseases that affect humanity, cancer is undoubtedly one of the most devastating. And even though treatments have evolved over the years with the natural advancement of technology, it is still a type of disease that causes a lot of fear in everyone. But in addition to the fears during treatment, there are also questions about the aftereffects it may leave. One of the main questions in doctor’s offices regarding men is whether prostate cancer causes infertility. It is a very relevant question and that’s exactly why we will talk about it in today’s article. But before that, it’s important to understand what prostate cancer is and how it acts in a man’s body.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs exclusively in men. The prostate is a male sexual gland located near the urethra. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men and also one of the most dangerous, since it practically shows no symptoms in its early stage. Its development is slow, but when the disease progresses, some of its symptoms include:

  • Difficulties and pain when urinating;
  • Pain when ejaculating;
  • Darkened urine and semen;
  • Constant urge to urinate

If not properly treated, the disease can progress and even cause death. It is also worth remembering that the earlier the disease is detected, the greater the chances of cure, and for this reason, prevention is so important.

Does Prostate Cancer Make Men Infertile?

There is no direct connection between cancer itself and male fertility, but the infections the disease can cause and the aftereffects that certain treatments can leave may indeed cause a man to become infertile, as well as lead to issues such as impotence, for example. In summary, we cannot say with certainty that prostate cancer causes infertility. It will all depend on the individual case, the stage of the disease, and how the treatment was carried out. That’s why we emphasize here the importance of prevention.

Risk Factors for the Disease

Even though, in theory, all men can develop prostate cancer, there are some factors that contribute to the onset of the disease. These are:

  • Age: Men over 50 years old are more likely to develop the disease.
  • Skin color: Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer. In them, the disease also tends to be more aggressive.
  • Smoking: The various substances in cigarettes can contribute to the development of the disease.
  • Obesity: Being overweight and poor eating habits also increase the chances of a man having prostate cancer.
  • Family history: All men who have had a family history of the disease are also more likely to develop it.

Men who are part of these groups always need to take preventive measures so that, if the disease does appear, treatment can be carried out as quickly as possible.

How to Prevent Prostate Cancer

As mentioned previously, the causes of prostate cancer are not well defined, although there are certain factors that contribute to its development. For this reason, men who are part of risk groups should take preventive measures. The earlier the disease is detected, the less harm it will cause and the greater the chances of curing it. The digital rectal exam, also known as the prostate exam, is performed so the doctor can measure the natural enlargement of a man’s prostate. The exam basically consists of the insertion of the finger into the man’s anus to check the size of the prostate. If the doctor finds it is too large, other tests will be ordered for further analysis and possibly to diagnose a disease. This exam should be performed annually by those in risk groups.

Treatment for Prostate Cancer

There are several types of treatments for prostate cancer. Each is recommended by the doctor according to the severity of the disease, and in some cases, they may be combined. We will talk about the main ones and explain how they work. To decide which treatment to use, the doctor should talk with their patient about all the existing options and about the possible side effects each one can bring. The treatments are:

  • Surgery;
  • Chemotherapy;
  • Radiotherapy;
  • Expectant Management

Surgery

This is a relatively common procedure of moderate difficulty. In surgery, the tumor is removed, as well as possible lymph nodes that develop because of the disease. Recovery is not particularly quick, requiring the patient to have complete rest. This type of treatment is usually suggested by a doctor when medications cannot reduce the tumor.

Chemotherapy

The treatment is usually done with medications administered directly into the vein or as pills. This type of treatment brings several side effects such as dizziness, nausea, impotence, among other things. It helps to shrink the tumor and is one of the most common treatments.

Radiotherapy

In this treatment, radiation waves are used to prevent cancer cells from multiplying. With advances in medicine, the side effects of radiotherapy are no longer as severe as in the past, although each body reacts differently to treatment.

Expectant Management

Usually used when the cancer is still in its early stages and does not tend to grow much. It is basically the doctor’s monitoring to control the disease, prescribing medications to prevent the disease from spreading and possibly recommending one of the other treatments mentioned here if there is an advancement of the cancer cells.

How to Deal With Sexual Life After Prostate Cancer?

Such a serious disease like cancer usually leaves sequelae in those who face it, especially in the early moments. When it comes to prostate cancer specifically, many men end up being affected sexually and some may even have erection problems for the rest of their lives. Dealing with this kind of situation requires not only calm and patience, but also a great deal of understanding from the partner, since her help is essential for the man to recover both physically and mentally. A man’s self-esteem can often be shaken in moments like this and the support of his partner is fundamental. Prostate cancer is, without a doubt, a frightening disease with truly devastating effects. Even men who have overcome it still need to learn to deal with the various aftereffects it can leave, such as infertility, for example. But even if prostate cancer causes infertility, there are alternatives for a man to continue leading a normal life and building a family. Support from a partner, friends, and family is always important so that a man can recover both physically and emotionally. It is a difficult battle, but it can be won. And don’t forget that prevention is the best way, so make sure to get the necessary exams done so the effects of the disease can always be minimized. See Also: Ovarian Cancer – Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Photo: Public Domain Pictures