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.
View More Free Articles
50-Cent Nutrient Puts the Brakes on Aging
Scientists discovered a remarkable “anti-aging” solution hiding in plain sight. It isn’t some exotic compound from a remote rainforest or an expensive laboratory creation. It’s a nutrient you can find at any pharmacy for less than the cost of a cup of coffee. The trouble is, most seniors aren’t getting enough of it, which researchers...
The Hidden Brain Risk Lurking in Your Living Room
If you’re reading this while settled into your favorite chair, you might want to consider standing up… New research uncovered something that might surprise you. Sitting too much can literally shrink your brain. But it gets worse… We all know being sedentary isn’t good for our health. However, researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered something alarming....
“Biohack” Your Life Like a Billionaire?! Here’s How
You’ve probably seen the headlines about the billionaire who spent millions on “biohacking” to try to make himself younger. He measures hundreds of biomarkers and pops dozens of pills daily. And he’s undergoing experimental treatments that cost more than most folks’ houses. It may have left you wondering if regular people like you and I...
Do THIS Daily to Improve Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance
For any couch potatoes out there… I have some exciting news. If you’ve been avoiding exercise because you hate the gym or don’t have the time, that might be about to change. A groundbreaking study reveals how a few simple moves, done daily in your own home, could dramatically improve your fitness—even if you’ve skipped...
Mailbag: A Post-Prostate Cancer Blueprint for a Better Recovery
“My son just got his prostate removed because of cancer. He is doing well and recovering. My question is there any information you can forward with regards to his lifestyle? Are there things he should not eat, things he should be eating, is social drinking a risk, any vitamins that should be on his list?...
The Stroke-Boosting Threat Lurking in YOUR Arteries
We want to take a moment on this Memorial Day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and selfless commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten, and their legacy lives on in the country they helped preserve. I’ve warned you...
20-Minute AM Hack Will Revolutionize How You Wake Up
If you feel like you’re in a fog for the first hour after your alarm goes off, you’re not alone. Mornings can be rough. That groggy, disoriented feeling isn’t just annoying—it’s a real physiological phenomenon called “sleep inertia.” And it can drag on for up to two hours after waking, even if you’ve had a...
Weekly Habit QUINTUPLES Your Cancer Risk
Everyone knows that sugar-sweetened sodas aren’t going to win any nutrition awards. That’s not news. But now, a disturbing new study suggests these soft drinks hide a deadly secret. A regular soda habit could do far more damage than just expand your waistline or raise your diabetes risk. The new research reveals these sugary treats...
Unlikely Duo Naturally SLASHES High Blood Pressure
Some things just naturally belong together—such as peanut butter and jelly, salsa and chips, or two peas in a pod. But there’s an unlikely pair that researchers say could do wonders for your heart health. A comprehensive new study from the University of Surrey has revealed that compounds found naturally in tea and chocolate can...
The Surprising Link Between Jaw Tension and Anxiety
Ever catch yourself clenching your jaw when you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for an important phone call? Well, it might tell you something important about what’s happening “upstairs.” Turns out, that jaw tension isn’t just annoying—it’s a direct hotline to your anxiety levels. And most of us don’t even realize we’re doing it. I’ve...