It’s important to talk about the possible side effects of any treatment suggested for your enlarged prostate. You will likely have a few treatment options, and your doctor will be happy to explain each one, including its benefits, risks, and possible side effects. Being well-informed helps you and your medical team make the best choices for your situation.

Some common short-term side effects of surgery for an enlarged prostate include:

Infections
Risk of bleeding
Difficulty urinating
Scarring that can narrow the urethra
Temporary pain or discomfort when urinating

These side effects usually go away within a few days after surgery. However, if you’re concerned or if the symptoms last longer than expected, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

A possible long-term side effect of surgery is permanent retrograde ejaculation, where semen enters the bladder instead of coming out through the penis. This is something you should discuss with your doctor to understand the risks.

Possible treatments