The prostate gland is one of the most important parts of the male reproductive system. It is responsible for producing a milky-colored fluid that comprises most of the part of the ejaculated sperm during sexual intercourse. This fluid provides the sperm with protection against the acidic environment of the vaginal tract, thus helping them to reach the egg for fertilization. Also, the same fluid increases the sperm motility. But there are two common medical conditions that may affect this very vital part of the reproductive system. They include the condition of prostate enlargement, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer. And both these conditions may be treated with a surgical procedure to remove a part or whole of the diseased prostate gland. The surgery is known as prostatectomy. Prostate Problems Prostate Enlargement As the name suggests, this condition is characterized by the enlargement of the gland to such an extent that it starts interfering with the urinary system of the body. Problems caused by it may include blocking the urine flow, difficulty in starting or stopping the urine, and frequent or urgent need to urinate. Nocturia, straining while urination, not being able to empty the bladder fully, and sometimes even presence of blood in the urine. This condition occurs commonly as men get older. Prostate Cancer This condition occurs when there is cancerous growth in the tissues of the prostate gland. This is attributed as one of the most common forms of cancer in men. Some men may a have a mild form of this condition, wherein, the cancer remains in the confinement of the gland and causes no trouble. While in some people, the cancer has a slow growth, and may or may not require treatment, unlike some cases which require aggressive treatment methods to deal with rapidly growing cancer cells. Problems caused by it are similar to those that occur in BPH. These may include trouble in urinating, blood in urine or semen, and weak force in urination. There might also be bone pain, legs may swell up, and a discomforting feeling may be preset in the pelvic area. Complications that May Arise Post Prostatectomy The following has listed down some common side effects that a patient may have to deal with post prostatectomy.

• Urinary Incontinence: It is a condition that causes people to lose their control on urine flow. More than being a medical issue, it is an embarrassing problem. Some people may have the problem in such a state that mere coughing, sneezing or laughing may make them leak urine occasionally, while some may have such a strong urge that they do not make it to the toilet on time. Although most men suffer from this problem after undergoing a prostate surgery, they usually regain bladder control within a few weeks, but it also depends on how severe was the problem before the surgery.
• Impotence:The next common complication that may be caused due to the surgery is associated with impotency. Some men may have this problem only for a temporary period of time, while in some, it may be permanent. Problems like erectile dysfunction, and issues with ejaculation may occur. Erectile dysfunction refers to a sexual condition wherein, the affected man remains unable to achieve an erection firm and long enough for performing a proper sexual intercourse. And the problem with ejaculation is associated with the flow of the sperm. What the surgery may do is, it may cause the sperm to flow backward into the bladder instead of making an exit from the penis. So even this cause fertility issues as the affected person is unable to father children.

To conclude, counseling a doctor about the severity of the condition, the nature of the prostate surgery, and of course about the possible side effects, may provide a great deal of help in tackling any problem that may arise during or post the surgery. Take care!