Can Prostate Problems Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Prostate problems can be associated with erectile dysfunction, although the relationship depends on the condition. BPH and its urinary symptoms are linked with ED, but BPH itself is not generally thought to cause ED by damaging erection-related nerves or directly reducing blood flow to the penis. Erectile dysfunction is common after radical prostatectomy because nerves and blood vessels involved in erections may be affected. Risk varies widely with factors such as age, erectile function before surgery, surgical technique, and whether nerve-sparing surgery is possible. Prostatitis, or prostate inflammation, creates pelvic pain and psychological stress that interfere with sexual function. Some medicines used for BPH can affect sexual function. Five-alpha reductase inhibitors may reduce libido or contribute to ED, while some alpha-blockers are more likely to cause ejaculation problems; effects vary by medicine and patient.