As with any surgical procedure, after surgery for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, it will be necessary to undergo a period of recovery while the prostate wound heals. This period can last up to three months.
What are the most frequent postoperative symptoms?
The most frequent symptoms that the patient may experience during recovery are the following:
- Dysuria: burning or stinging when urinating.
- Increased frequency of urination
- Transient stress incontinence
These symptoms are completely normal, due to the inflammation of the wound caused by the laser. In addition, after the procedure the patient will have to drink more water than usual, so that the frequency of urination will increase significantly. In this sense, taking anti-inflammatory drugs and avoiding irritants in the diet are two guidelines that may help to improve these symptoms.
On the other hand, it is common for urine to come out pink or brown, especially in the morning. When this color appears in the urine it means that the wound is healing. In this sense, the most advisable thing to do is to rest, avoid constipation and drink more water, because in most cases, this allows the problem to be solved.
There are also cases in which a drop of urine escapes when straining. This is because men do not usually use their pelvic floor and sphincter muscles. In this sense, rehabilitation exercises are recommended to strengthen these muscles so that after three months there will be no urine leakage.
Does the surgery have any effect on sexual function?
Although there are not usually many changes in erections, surgery can lead to an improvement or worsening of sexual function. In this sense, the absence of ejaculation, also known as dry orgasm, is very common. It is very common and, in fact, there are techniques to preserve it, although they may sacrifice the quality of the surgery.
The same surgery is not ideal for everyone, so it is important to tailor the surgery to the patient’s needs.