What to expect after prostatectomy?

Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure done to remove the prostate gland in men. It is often performed as part of treatment for prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. However, undergoing a prostatectomy can be a daunting experience for most men. Recovery after this surgery can take several months and it’s not always easy to predict what will happen next – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with what to expect!

The Basics

When you wake up from the anesthesia, you may feel groggy and tired while trying to make sense out of everything that happened. You may also have some pain around the area where your pubic region meets your lower belly (suprapubic area).

Once you’re able to stand up again without too much discomforts such as nausea or dizziness, you’ll likely be discharged from the hospital but must return for follow-up care.

Incontinence Struggles

Incontinence occurs when individuals suffer from urine leakage due either to pressure build-up on their bladder or weakened urethral muscles that cannot control proper flow during times of stress like laughing/having sex. A common short-term side effect post-prostatectomy is urinary incontinence which will often improve over time with exercise/therapy—so don’t fret if this is happening early on since it’ll probably end soon enough!

  • You may experience involuntary urination before being able to use the restroom.
  • Quick movements such as sneezing/coughing could lead unexpectedly leaking whoops.

However, long term solutions are being developed; imagine: ‘male diapers’

Penis Sensitivity

Post-surgery recovery period usually comes with numbness rumors >:( about how extreme penis desensitization might occur (sometimes permanently—yikes) doesn’t help loosen tensions—but know that numbness typically fades away as healing progresses. You may initially struggle with erectile dysfunction but worry-not, there are plenty of treatments that can help you regain full control in no time.

  • Remember to discuss this with your doctor; They’ll most likely recommend different stimulation exercises which could lead to a speedy recovery.
  • Those silly rumors about impotence? Don’t buy into them!

Intimacy after Prostatectomy

Sidenote: Even though sex is important and fun, we should focus on recovering first before diving headfirst since intercourse could be painful or even cause damage if done too soon. It’s recommended to wait around 8 weeks post-prostatectomy.

After the initial waiting period for exploring where everything now… (this means taking note of any changes such as decreased pubic hair sensation/</3 ) – Lastly, communicate openly with your partner(s)as it provides both parties assurance in certain things while also thriving the relationship purely based on conversation—how fun!

Bowel Movements

Surgery can limit bowel movement because anesthesia will slow down bodily functions making diarrhea a feasible complication hence proper water intake and healthy meals should always be considered. The nurse will suggest starting light exercise such as walks right after surgery-this stimulates bowel activity although you might still experience abdominal pain during these moments at times due to constipation😱. Talk to your doctors regarding this matter for related medications

Don’t forget To consume manageable foods like vegetables/fruits high fiber content-practicing good hygiene measures helps prevent infection issues!

Eating Habits|Outcome Result|
:–:| :—: |
Frequent consumption of lighter meals | relieves pressure from intestinal blockages caused by anal muscles contracting repeatedly against hard materials
Drinking a glass or more water everyday improves gut/skin health | increases elasticity/strength in tissues surrounding anus reducing chances of mucus infections

Other Common Issues

If you’ve made it this far, you deserve a cookie for being awesome! Now just to give y’all a rundown of other issues that may occur post-prostatectomy:

  • Penis shrinkage and phantom sensations. The latter should go away in time (thanks brain).
  • Feelings of depression or anxiety is common :). Hospitals have therapists to assist with these sentiments!
  • Lymphedema can happen where swelling happens around belly &/or privates due to lymph nodes damage during surgery. Compression stockings are helpful.

Tips: Bathing regularly with warm soaps not only helps relieve secondary infections but also reduces body odor!

In conclusion, prostatectomy recovery isn’t always the smoothest ride but keep in mind that each individual’s journey differs—you might even surprise yourself on your progress level possibly feeling able sooner than later than expected (thank me later). You’ll be up and running again before long!

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