If you’ve had treatment for prostate cancer that was contained inside the prostate (localised prostate cancer) and have erection problems caused by low testosterone levels, then you may be able to have testosterone replacement therapy.
So, how does it work?
Testosterone replacement therapy increases the low level of testosterone in your body to a normal level.
Sounds good, but what does that mean for my sex life?
It may improve your orgasms, ejaculation and erections. It might also make some drugs for erection problems (PDE5 inhibitors) work more effectively for you In fact, some research has shown that it is safe for men who have had successful treatment for localised prostate cancer to have testosterone therapy.
What if my doctor thinks I should have it?
If your doctor or nurse advises you to have testosterone replacement therapy ask them about the risks and benefits. If you do decide to have testosterone replacement therapy you will have regular prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal examinations to check for any signs of your cancer returning.
What if I’m having hormone therapy to treat my prostate cancer?
You won’t be offered testosterone replacement therapy if you’re having hormone therapy. This is because some hormone therapy works by decreasing the amount of testosterone in your body to slow down the growth of your cancer.