Management of male sexual dysfunction after cancer treatment

With an increase in the number of cancer survivors each year, male sexual dysfunction becomes an important topic for discussion between patients and providers who treat cancer. The aim of this article is to review types and mechanisms of sexual dysfunction after cancer therapy and discuss treatment options.

Contemporary concepts regarding male sexual dysfunction after cancer treatment are reviewed and translated for clinical utility.

To optimize recovery of erectile capacity after erectile dysfunction causing cancer treatments, a penile rehabilitation protocol involving phosphodiesterase inhibitors, vacuum erection device, intra corporal injections, or a combination is likely to provide some degree of clinically significant benefit. Treating hypogonadism post cancer treatment depends on the type of cancer that has been treated and patient comorbidities. Anejaculation after cancer treatments is typically not successfully or reliably treated due to the mechanism and severity of sympathetic nerve injury. Semen cryopreservation prior to cancer treatments that may injure nerve fibers essential for the ejaculatory response is highly recommended.

Management of post cancer treatment sexual dysfunction requires identification of this problem and referral to a specialist if necessary. There are several management options available that can greatly enhance quality of life in this often overlooked aspect of post cancer treatment care.