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February 5, 2026

(PM-08) Impact of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy on the partnerships of cisgender men: an integrative review

Key Points

Assess the effects of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy on the partnerships of cisgender men.
Conducted an integrative literature review with PubMed database searches from 2015 to 2025.
Identified 37 relevant studies, with 11 included for analysis.
Evaluated effects of interventions like psychosexual support, vardenafil, and couple therapy.
Well-informed patients and psychosexual support enhance couples' experiences of sexual pleasure post-treatment.
Vardenafil and cognitive behavioral therapy improved erectile function and sexual satisfaction in couples.
Perineal rehabilitation effectively treated mild to moderate urinary incontinence.

Abstract

Abstract Introduction According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common type of cancer among men in Brazil. Radical prostatectomy (RP) and radiotherapy (RT) are the most commonly used treatments for PCa. 45% of those diagnosed undergo RP. This technique can lead to urinary and reproductive tract dysfunction, with erectile dysfunction (ED) and urinary incontinence (UI) being symptoms that generate concern, leading to feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, frustration, and dissatisfaction in most men. However, they directly impact their personal, professional, social, and/or marital quality of life. Objective To identify the impact of UI and ED after radical prostatectomy on the partnerships of cisgender men. Methodology This is an integrative literature review, with searches in the PubMed database, which included analyses from 2015 to 2025. Thirty-seven studies were identified, of which 11 were included. Results Well-informed patients and psychosexual support for couples can help them connect and experience sexual pleasure soon after treatment, despite the functional dysfunctions resulting from RP. Vardenafil and sexual behavioral therapy (CBT) improved erectile function (EF), couples’ sexual satisfaction, and female sexual function. Furthermore, perineal rehabilitation has been shown to be effective in treating mild to moderate urinary incontinence. Conclusion UI and ED resulting from RP negatively impact the lives of individuals with PCa, but little is known about the impact on the partner and sexual dissatisfaction within the couple. Therefore, more research on this topic is needed to confirm this and provide healthcare professionals with a better understanding of how to guide and support these partnerships. Keywords: couple therapy, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy. Financing No conflict

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