MAILBAG: Addressing Bedroom Challenges After Radiation
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted January 7, 2025
“My husband went thru radiation for stage 3 prostate cancer two years ago.
He would love to have sex but is experiencing ED badly.
Is there any hope or med that would help him?”
– Seeking A Solution
Hi Seeking,
Erectile dysfunction (ED) that develops as the result of radiation treatment can be challenging. If the nerves that run to the penis are damaged by the radiation sometimes nothing can be done.
Having said that, I have seen ED turn around in men who were having similar problems.
Let’s look at some natural approaches that I’ve shared with my own patients that could help those in similar circumstances:
- Pelvic floor exercises: These can strengthen the muscles involved in erectile function. Kegel exercises are a good place to start. To identify the right muscles imagine you’re stopping the flow of urine midstream. The muscles you contract to do this are the pelvic floor muscles. Squeeze them as if you’re holding in urine for a few seconds 10 to 15 times and repeat three to four times daily.
- L-arginine and Glycine supplements: These amino acids can improve blood flow, which is crucial for erections.
- Ginseng: Some studies suggest this herb might help with ED symptoms.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique has shown promise for some men with ED.
- Lifestyle changes: Making some changes to your lifestyle can help some men with ED regain more function. These include committing to regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption
- Ginkgo biloba: Some studies suggest that the herb Gingko may increase blood flow or improve nerve function easing ED symptoms. More research is needed.
- Zinc supplements: Zinc is vital for testosterone production, which plays a vital role in erectile function.
- DHEA: This hormone plays a role in sexual function, is available as a supplement, and might help with ED symptoms in some cases.
- Yohimbine: An extract from tree bark, this herb has shown some potential in treating ED.
Any man battling ED should consider consulting his doctor or a urologist specializing in post-cancer treatment ED. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest other options like medication or devices if appropriate.
Remember, intimacy isn’t solely about intercourse. This might be a good time to explore other ways of maintaining closeness and connection in your relationship.
Open communication about expectations and feelings is key.
P.S. Nine modern health threats that ACTUALLY matter.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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