Prostate surgery is often called for as a lifesaving measure. Sometimes it's performed to relieve the symptoms of enlargement. In both cases, two main potential side effects often make men very wary of surgical procedures.

When a complete prostatectomy for cancer or transurethral resection to relieve enlargement are called for, men will find two main concerns often arise. The most common side effects of surgical procedures are impotence and incontinence.

On the upside, the incidence of either incontinence or impotence becoming a lifelong side effect of prostate surgery is very low. When prostate cancer forces a full removal of the prostate gland, the likelihood of long-term incontinence is down to less than 2 per cent. The potential for sexual side effects, such as impotence, lasting permanently are also on the decline. If the surgeon's skill is high in "nerve sparing" techniques or nerve grafting, the risk of long-term impotence is minimised greatly. It can, however, still take up to three years for natural erections to return.

To lessen the chances of serious side effects becoming permanent problems, there are steps men can take. These include:

Preventative measures. It is not feasible to always ward off prostate cancer or the need for surgery, but diet, exercise and certain supplements can help reduce the chances. Clinical studies are supporting the use of supplements and diets that contain lycopene , pumpkin seeds and many other natural ingredients to prevent enlargement and even ward off cancer.

Early detection. Annual examinations to detect prostate problems before they become major ones can help physicians catch cancer in its early stages. If it is caught early enough, it is possible less evasive techniques can be used in place of more radical measures.

Surgical selection. Before agreeing to prostate surgery, it is very smart for men to carefully weigh their options, screen potential surgeons and be very clear the path chosen is the right one. While there are cases where more radical forms of prostate surgery are absolutely called for, other options often demand consideration before the decision is made.

Prostate surgery is not a fun prospect. If it is called for, a skilled hand and time can often help ensure the two most frightening side effects do not stick around forever. Still, many men prefer to explore less invasive, alternative means to prevent or even relieve symptoms of certain prostate conditions.

Prostate surgery is often called for as a lifesaving measure. Despite this, two main potential side effects often make men very wary of radical procedures.