Does chemotherapy cause erectile dysfunction?
Usually not directly. The National Cancer Institute says chemotherapy may lower testosterone levels and sex drive during treatment. Sex drive is also called libido. But chemotherapy does not usually affect the ability to have an erection.
Erectile dysfunction means trouble getting or keeping an erection. It is more often linked with other treatments. Radiation to the pelvis can damage blood vessels or nerves that erections depend on. Hormone therapy can lower testosterone and make erections harder to get or keep. Surgery for pelvic cancers can affect the nerves involved. Nerve-sparing surgery can sometimes prevent that. Some medicines used for pain or depression can also lower sex drive.
One thing to know about chemotherapy is that a condom may be advised. Semen can contain traces of chemotherapy for a while after treatment.
If you have concerns about erections or sex drive, help is available. NCI notes that once a problem is diagnosed, an oncologist or urologist can advise on options. These include medicines that increase blood flow to the penis, and in some cases a penile implant. Your care team can explain what is likely with your own treatment, and what may help.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Sexual Health for Men With Cancer
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