Prostate cancer is one of those topics many men prefer not to think about – until they have to. It’s often talked about quietly, but it’s something worth bringing into the open. In New Zealand, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men, with more than 4,000 new cases every year. The prostate itself is a small gland about the size of a walnut, sitting just below the bladder and surrounding part of the urethra. It helps produce semen and plays an important role in fertility.
While hearing the word “cancer” can be scary, there’s a lot of positive news. Prostate cancer is usually slow-growing, and thanks to early detection and effective treatments, survival rates are very high – around 96 percent of men are still alive five years after diagnosis. That said, early awareness really matters. Knowing your family history and keeping up with regular check-ups can make a big difference, especially for men with a father, brother, or son who’s been diagnosed.
Most men first hear about prostate testing through the PSA blood test, which measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. PSA is a protein naturally produced by the prostate, and higher levels can be a sign that something’s changed – but that doesn’t always mean cancer. PSA levels can rise for lots of reasons, such as a urinary infection, recent ejaculation, or even a long bike ride.
Because of this, the PSA test isn’t a diagnosis on its own. Instead, it’s a useful starting point. If the results are elevated, your doctor may suggest more testing, such as imaging or a biopsy, to get a clearer picture. It’s also important to have a proper chat with your GP before getting tested. They can explain the benefits and limitations of PSA testing and help you make an informed decision based on your age, health, and family history.
If prostate cancer is diagnosed, there are several treatment options available, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Common treatments include surgery (prostatectomy), radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. All of these can be very effective in treating the cancer, but they can also come with side effects that affect your day-to-day life.
One of the most common issues after prostate surgery is urinary incontinence – difficulty controlling your bladder. Almost all men experience some degree of leakage in the early weeks after surgery, though it usually improves with time and the right support. Erectile dysfunction and changes to bladder or bowel function can also occur, especially after surgery or radiation. Hormone therapy, which lowers testosterone levels, can lead to fatigue, mood changes, and weight gain.
There are also newer, less invasive treatments being explored, such as the NanoKnife procedure, which uses electrical pulses to destroy cancer cells. It’s showing some promising results, though it’s not yet widely available in New Zealand.
For men with small, slow-growing cancers, another approach called active surveillance can be a good option. This means keeping a close eye on the cancer with regular testing and scans, rather than jumping straight into treatment. Many men live for years without needing surgery or radiation. Alongside medical monitoring, making positive lifestyle changes – being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and managing stress – can help improve overall health and long-term outcomes.
This is where pelvic health physiotherapists come in.
Many people are surprised to learn that physiotherapists can play a big role in prostate cancer recovery – and even before treatment begins. A pelvic health physiotherapist has specialised training in the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and sexual function, so keeping them strong and well-coordinated is key to recovery. To learn more about the pelvic floor muscles check out this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQQSqLCF12g
Starting pelvic floor exercises before surgery has been shown to improve bladder control and speed up recovery afterwards. Physiotherapists teach you how to correctly identify and activate the pelvic floor muscles (which isn’t always as easy as it sounds) and provide guidance tailored to your needs. They also offer support for bowel health, bladder retraining, fluid management, and strategies for managing erectile changes.
But pelvic health physiotherapy isn’t just about exercises. It’s also about education and reassurance – helping you understand what’s happening to your body, setting realistic expectations for recovery, and supporting your confidence as you return to daily life. For many men, this support is just as important as the physical rehabilitation itself.
Prostate cancer may be common, but it doesn’t have to define your life. With early detection, informed decisions, and the right care team, most men go on to live full, active, and healthy lives. Pelvic health physiotherapy plays a vital role in that journey, helping you regain control, strength, and confidence at every stage – before, during, and after treatment.
If you or someone you know is preparing for prostate surgery or managing recovery, it’s never too early (or too late) to see a pelvic health physiotherapist. Taking proactive steps now can make a world of difference to your long-term wellbeing and quality of life.
Get in touch with Active Health Christchurch or Active Health Rangiora below or give us a call!
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