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Exercise improves sexual function in men with prostate cancer

Regular cardio and resistance training can improve blood flow. This might help remedy erectile dysfunction, a new study shows.

Key takeaways

• Many men experience sexual issues, including erectile dysfunction, after prostate cancer treatment.
• Regular cardiovascular and strength training workouts can significantly improve sexual function, according to a new study.
• The benefits of exercise for sexual health can vary depending on the type of prostate cancer treatment.

Listen up, my new gurus. Six months of regular aerobic exercise and resistance training can improve sexual function in men treated for prostate cancer. A recent study finds this to be true.

”The study suggests exercise is effective for men with prostate cancer concerned about sexual dysfunction. Exercise medicine should be a key part of their treatment,” said Dr. Daniel Galvão, coauthor and director of the Exercise Medicine Research Institute at Edith Cowen University in Perth, Australia.

Most men experience erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment

Nearly all men will face some level of erectile dysfunction in the first few months after prostate cancer treatment. Although many men return to their previous function within a year, a significant number don’t.

Make no mistake - this affects more than one area of life. Erectile dysfunction is a major issue for prostate cancer patients. It impacts relationships and overall quality of life. Sadly, most patients aren’t offered full health interventions to support sexual function. We need to change that narrative.

Study participants worked out three times a week for six months

The study included 112 men diagnosed with prostate cancer, around 66 years old on average. Participants were randomized to receive one of three interventions:

• Six months of supervised and self-directed exercise and resistance training
• Six months of exercise training plus a brief educational session
• Usual medical care

The exercise program was comprehensive, not casual. It included resistance training and aerobic exercise. Participants worked out three times a week over six months. The aerobic part involved 20 to 30 minutes of cardio at moderate to vigorous intensity. Equipment like treadmills, cycling machines, or rowing machines was used.

For resistance training, six to eight weightlifting exercises targeted both upper and lower body muscle groups.

This wasn’t just about showing up to the gym occasionally. Participants were encouraged to exercise on their own to meet the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Key study findings include:

• Exercise improved erectile function by an average of 5.1 points on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). This scale scores function from 1 to 30, with higher scores indicating better function. An improvement of at least 4 points is considered noticeable.
• Exercise effects were more significant for those who had radiotherapy and androgen deprivation therapy than for those who had a prostatectomy.
• Men reporting lower levels of sexual desire and satisfaction at the study start benefited more from the exercise.
• Regular exercise also prevented body fat gain and improved muscle strength.
• The psychosexual education session didn’t improve ED.

Based on these findings, exercise should be part of treatment to boost sexual function in men with prostate cancer, the authors concluded.

Improved fitness helps blood flow and erectile dysfunction

”These findings support earlier studies linking exercise to improved sexual function. They highlight the link between cardiovascular health and sexual function,” says Dr. Alexander Eisenberg, a urologist at Stanford Health in Palo Alto, California.

Earlier research has shown that yoga improves ED in men with prostate cancer. In middle-aged and older men without prostate cancer, exercise benefits sexual health, according to the authors.

”Many men are motivated to recover function after prostate cancer treatment. The study gives valuable information on an exercise strategy to maximize postoperative sexual function,” says Eisenberg.

Experts think the benefits come from better cardiovascular fitness and systemic circulation, he adds.

”Improved blood flow should lead to better erectile function,” says Eisenberg.

Alternatives to medication for erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer

Men often wonder if physical activity can help with erectile dysfunction (ED) after prostate cancer treatment. The answer is yes. Exercise improves blood flow, which plays a key role in correcting erectile issues.

Beyond exercise, there are other alternatives. Nutrition can also impact sexual health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall well-being. Yoga and meditation help, too. They reduce stress, which is another factor in subtle sexual issues.

These alternatives are important. Some men avoid medication due to side effects or personal preferences. Incorporating these activities into daily life gives more control over health outcomes. It combines exercise, healthy eating, and stress management. A holistic approach makes a significant difference.

Is it safe for men with prostate cancer to exercise?

Here’s something important. After recovery, most men with prostate cancer can exercise. Always check with a doctor for any limitations. It’s essential to know how long to restrict activity if needed.

Science is clear on this. Exercise isn’t just about looking good or feeling stronger, though those are great benefits. For men recovering from prostate cancer, it offers a powerful, non-pharmacological way to regain sexual function and boost quality of life.

When we talk about comprehensive cancer care, healing goes beyond removing cancer. It means restoring life in all aspects, including intimate relationships. This research provides another tool in that journey.

Summary

This article was about the positive effects of exercise on sexual function in men with prostate cancer. Recent studies highlight the importance of regular aerobic and strength training exercises. These exercises help improve erectile dysfunction significantly. The research suggests that exercise should be a crucial part of a prostate cancer treatment plan.

Going forward, it’s crucial to explore how these therapies can be more integrated into standard treatments. Awareness about alternatives to medication like diet and yoga should increase, too. Knowing what works makes all the difference in improving quality of life for prostate cancer patients.