Recovery and Follow-Up Care

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

At Northwestern Medicine, our multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer care includes services to enhance recovery and to aid in the management of side effects following prostate cancer treatment.

Restoration of Sexual Vitality

Our men’s health specialists provide integrated treatment and therapy to address the physical, medical and hormonal changes that impact sexual health following a urologic cancer diagnosis.

Men who have surgery or radiation therapy for prostate cancer commonly experience erectile dysfunction for at least a few months following treatment. We offer several treatment options to restore sexual function, including medications, penile injection and erection vacuum devices.

Penile prostheses (implants) are frequently used for men who do not respond to first-line treatments for erectile dysfunction. The Department of Urology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital has been named a Center of Excellence by a leading producer of penile implants in the United States.

Bladder Health Optimization

Incontinence, or difficulty controlling the flow of urine, is common after prostate cancer surgery. To optimize bladder health, our urologists provide extensive follow-up care for patients following prostate cancer treatment. Care may include education on exercises known to strengthen muscles associated with urinary continence or medication to improve urinary flow and treat bothersome bladder symptoms.

Psychosocial Support

Prostate Cancer Support Group

The prostate cancer support group welcomes all people affected by prostate cancer, including patients, caregivers, spouses and partners. You don't have to receive care at Northwestern Medicine to attend. To register, visit the Polsky Urologic Cancer Institute of Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Supportive Oncology in Downtown Chicago

The Supportive Oncology Program at Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital provides support for patients and their loved ones from diagnosis through treatment and recovery. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to listening and responding to emotional and practical concerns relating to treatment, such as transportation and finances. Learn more.