There are certain other medical conditions that could bring about the onset of erectile dysfunction. Understanding the underlying causes and getting the proper treatment for them early could make all the difference in a successful recovery. The more education you have in things like this, the better off you’re going to be.

One of those disorders that could be associated with erectile dysfunction is prostate cancer. The prostate is a small muscular gland near the bladder. It is a male reproductive organ whose main function is to secrete prostate fluid, one of the components of semen. The muscles of this gland also help propel this seminal fluid into the urethra during ejaculation.

Prostate cancer is rather common; for men it is the most common form of cancer that is not involved with the skin. The good news  is that it is treatable, but the bad news is that the treatment itself could be something that eventually leads to erectile dysfunction. There is a close proximity between the prostate gland and the nerves that are involved with the process of achieving an erection.

If you have undergone hormonal therapy, that can have a debilitating effect on the normal erection process. The same can be said about radiation therapy or surgery. Prostate cancer treatments can effect the nearby tissues and nerves, and that is something that is going to put you in danger of developing erectile dysfunction.

“Screening for prostate cancer begins with a blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. This test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a substance made by the prostate. The levels of PSA in the blood can be higher in men who have prostate cancer. The PSA level may also be elevated in other conditions that affect the prostate. Because many factors can affect PSA levels, your doctor is the best person to interpret your PSA test results.”*

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.