A Surprising Fix for Post-Prostate Cancer Bedroom Struggles

Sexual dysfunction is one of the most common—and most frustrating—aftereffects of prostate cancer treatment.

For many men, the blow doesn’t just hit below the belt—it hits their confidence, relationships, and identity.

But groundbreaking new research from Australia may offer renewed hope: physical activity, especially resistance and aerobic exercise, may significantly improve erectile function in men recovering from prostate cancer.

And the earlier you get moving, the better.

In this randomized clinical trial, published by researchers from Edith Cowan University, men who exercised three times a week saw measurable gains in erectile function after six months—especially those who had undergone radiotherapy or hormone-blocking therapy.

Even better? The workouts also improved body composition, strength, and self-perception—factors that often take a hit during cancer treatment.

Prostate cancer treatment often leaves a long legacy of sexual challenges. Erectile dysfunction (ED), reduced libido, changes in orgasm, and even emotional distance with a partner are all too common—especially for men who undergo:

• Radiation therapy (which can damage blood vessels and nerves),
• Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) (which reduces testosterone and causes body composition changes), or
• Surgery (especially if nerve-sparing procedures aren’t possible).

Unfortunately, most men don’t receive targeted support for these sexual side effects—either because they’re embarrassed to bring it up, or because their doctors don’t offer solutions beyond medication.

That’s why this new study is so important: it highlights a non-pharmaceutical, empowering path to sexual recovery.

The study enrolled 112 men (average age: 66) who had received treatment for prostate cancer and were experiencing sexual dysfunction. Participants were randomly divided into three groups:

1. Exercise only – structured resistance and aerobic training 3x a week.
2. Exercise + Psychosexual Support (PESM) – exercise plus education and counseling.
3. Control group – no intervention beyond usual care.

All men had been treated with surgery, radiation, or ADT. None were already engaged in regular exercise.

After 6 months, the results were clear:

• The exercise-only group improved their erectile function scores by an average of 3.5 points (on the IIEF scale), a statistically significant and clinically meaningful gain.
• Those receiving exercise + PESM saw no additional improvement beyond exercise alone.
• Participants also lost fat, gained muscle strength, and reported better physical function.

Men who had undergone radiation or hormone therapy saw the greatest improvements, likely because exercise helps counteract ADT-related muscle loss and boosts testosterone balance.

According to the researchers, exercise may improve sexual function after prostate cancer in several ways:

• Physically: by improving blood flow, muscle strength, and body composition.
• Hormonally: by reducing the feminizing effects of hormone therapy and possibly improving natural testosterone levels.
• Psychologically: by boosting confidence, self-perception, and libido.

One surprising finding? The men who had the worst sexual function at the start saw the most benefit from the program. That means it’s never too late to see improvement—especially if you’re starting from a low point.

If you or someone you love is recovering from prostate cancer and struggling with sexual dysfunction, exercise might be the missing piece. Here’s what the experts recommend:

• Start within 12 months of completing treatment for the best results.
• Combine aerobic exercise (like brisk walking or cycling) with resistance training (like weightlifting or bodyweight movements).
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Work with a physical therapist or supervised program if possible, especially if recovering from surgery or radiation.

And remember: you don’t need to wait for a prescription. While medications and counseling may still have a role, incorporating regular exercise is a powerful, accessible step that puts you back in control.

Getting your strength back may be the key to getting your spark back. Don’t underestimate the power of movement,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

Sources:

Dr Pierre Margent. (2025, May 12). After Prostate Cancer, Physical Activity Revives Erections. Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/after-prostate-cancer-physical-activity-revives-erections-2025a1000be2