Category: News

If you’re considering a penile implant to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), you likely have one big question: What will sex be like afterward? The good news is, for many men and their partners, intimacy not only returns—it improves!

Below, we’ll walk through what to expect during sex with a penile implant, plus how the procedure works, what recovery looks like, and why satisfaction rates are so high.

First, What Is a Penile Implant?

A penile implant is a medical device placed inside the penis during a surgical procedure. It’s designed to help men with ED achieve and maintain an erection strong enough for intercourse, even when other treatments like medication haven’t worked.

There are two main types of implants:

• Inflatable implants, which use a fluid-filled system you activate with a small pump hidden in the scrotum.
• Malleable (or semi-rigid) implants, which you position manually.

Both types of implants are internal, discreet, and tailored to your lifestyle and needs. Remember: Your doctor can help you determine which choice is right for you!

What to Expect During Sex

One of the biggest advantages of a penile implant is that it offers on-demand control. When you’re ready for intimacy, you simply activate the implant—and when you’re done, you deactivate it (in the case of an inflatable device).

Here’s what many men report after healing:

• Natural-feeling erections: The implant gives you a firm, reliable erection that feels similar to a natural one—for you and your partner.
• No interference with orgasm or sensation: A penile implant doesn’t affect your ability to climax or feel pleasure. If anything, knowing you can perform reliably may even enhance your experience.
• Spontaneity returns: No waiting for pills to kick in, no worrying about timing. That freedom brings confidence back into your sex life.

What About Your Partner?

Studies show high partner satisfaction rates after a penile implant. Open communication helps—your partner may need time to adjust, but most couples appreciate the renewed sense of connection and spontaneity.

In fact, for many couples, restoring the ability to be intimate on their own terms strengthens emotional closeness. And because the implant is discreet, most partners say they can’t tell the difference!

The Procedure and Recovery

Penile implant surgery is a routine, outpatient procedure that typically takes under an hour. It’s performed under general or spinal anesthesia, and most men return home the same day or the next.

After surgery, you’ll likely experience:

• Mild soreness, swelling, or bruising in the groin area
• Pain that improves steadily over the first week or two
• Restrictions on heavy lifting, sexual activity, and strenuous movement for about 4–6 weeks

Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and teach you how to use the device. Most men can return to normal sexual activity within 6 to 8 weeks, depending on individual healing.

While every person’s recovery is different, the vast majority find the discomfort manageable and temporary—especially when compared to the long-term benefits.

Why Satisfaction Is So High

Penile implants have one of the highest satisfaction rates of any ED treatment—both for patients and their partners. Here’s why:

• Long-lasting results: Once implanted, most devices work well for 10 to 15 years or longer.
• Predictability: Unlike pills or injections, you don’t have to guess whether it’ll work. The implant gives you reliable results every time.
• Discretion: The implant is completely internal—nothing is visible from the outside, and no one will know unless you tell them.
• Confidence boost: Many men report feeling younger, more in control, and more connected to their partner after the procedure.

Most importantly, it restores a part of life that feels personal, powerful, and affirming. And that can have positive ripple effects on mood, relationships, and overall well-being.

The Bottom Line

Sex after a penile implant can feel freeing, empowering, and deeply satisfying. If ED has been holding you back, this solution may be the key to a confident, fulfilling sex life.

Curious about your options?  Contact a board-certified urologist at Southland Urology at (714) 870-5970 today to learn more about whether a penile implant is right for you!

Deciding to have a vasectomy is a significant step in your reproductive health. Whether you’ve decided not to have children in the future or are certain your family is complete, this procedure offers a permanent form of birth control. Once you’ve discussed your decision with your partner and your urologist at Southland Urology, it’s time to prepare for the procedure.

Understanding the Vasectomy Procedure

A vasectomy is a simple outpatient procedure that prevents sperm from entering semen, making conception impossible.

Types of Vasectomy

• Traditional vasectomy – Involves making small incisions in the scrotum to access and cut the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm.
• No-scalpel vasectomy – Uses tiny punctures in the skin rather than incisions, minimizing discomfort and reducing recovery time.

Regardless of the method used, both involve cutting and sealing the vas deferens, preventing sperm from reaching the semen. The body continues to produce sperm, but they are naturally absorbed.

A vasectomy does not affect testosterone levels, sex drive, erections, or the ability to ejaculate—your semen will simply no longer contain sperm.

How to Prepare for a Vasectomy

Before your vasectomy, your urologist at Southland Urology will provide detailed instructions to ensure a smooth procedure. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Adjust Medications: Avoid blood thinners (both prescription and over-the-counter) as advised by your doctor.
• Shave the Area: Shave around the scrotum a day before the procedure or be prepared for it to be done in the office.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, breathable clothing. The procedure room is kept warm, so lighter clothing is ideal.
• Bring an Athletic Supporter: A snug, supportive garment will help minimize discomfort and swelling post-procedure.
• Eat Lightly: A light meal beforehand is typically allowed since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
• Bring Entertainment: Many men find it helpful to listen to music or a podcast during the procedure.
• Arrange a Ride Home: Even if you don’t take anti-anxiety medication, it’s best to have someone drive you home.

Potential Risks and Complications

Vasectomies are generally safe and highly effective, but as with any procedure, there are potential risks, including:

• Mild infection at the incision site.
• Persistent pain or discomfort in the scrotum.
• Sperm granuloma – a small, tender lump caused by sperm leakage.
• Post-vasectomy pain syndrome causing temporary swelling and discomfort.
• Rare failure of the procedure—where the vas deferens may reconnect, leading to pregnancy.

Most complications are minor and resolve with proper post-procedure care.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a vasectomy is straightforward, and most men return to normal activities within a few days. To ensure a smooth recovery:

• Wear snug underwear or an athletic supporter to reduce swelling.
• Use ice packs to minimize discomfort for the first 24–48 hours.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least a week.
• Refrain from sexual activity for a few days to allow proper healing.

When is a Vasectomy Effective?

A vasectomy is not immediately effective. Sperm may still be present in the semen for several weeks after the procedure. To ensure complete sterility:

• Continue using another form of birth control for at least 12 weeks post-surgery.
• Have at least 20 ejaculations before your semen is tested.
• Schedule a follow-up semen analysis with your urologist about three months post-procedure.

Once your semen is confirmed sperm-free, you can safely engage in sex without the risk of pregnancy.

Considering a Vasectomy?

If you’re ready to take the next step or want to discuss whether a vasectomy is right for you,  Contact your urologist at Southland Urology at (714) 870-5970 to schedule a consultation in Orange County, CA.

Frequent bathroom trips. Ongoing pelvic pain. Disrupted sleep. These are just a few signs that something more serious than a typical bladder issue may be happening. Interstitial cystitis, often misunderstood and underdiagnosed, can significantly affect quality of life. Understanding the symptoms is the first step toward finding relief.

Interstitial Cystitis: Painful Bladder Syndrome

Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic condition that affects how your bladder functions.

Normally, when your bladder fills with urine, nerves in the pelvis signal your brain that it’s time to go. It typically happens without pain unless you’ve been holding it too long.

In people with IC, those signals become disrupted. You might feel the urge to urinate every 10 to 15 minutes, or even up to 60 times a day. The process of storing and releasing urine becomes painful and exhausting.

Women are about 10 times more likely to develop IC than men. The pain often intensifies during menstruation, making the condition especially difficult to manage.

What Causes IC?

The exact cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown, but several theories exist. It may be related to nerve damage, defects in the bladder lining, allergic reactions, bladder tissue issues, or autoimmune responses.

Many women with IC also have conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and fibromyalgia.

Typical Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

• Chronic pain in the bladder, lower abdomen, or pelvic region
• Frequent urination and persistent urgency
• Painful urination (dysuria)
• Urinating in small amounts both day and night
• Pain during and after sexual intercourse (in women)
• Occasional blood in the urine
• Discomfort or pain when the bladder fills

Some patients may describe their discomfort as pressure rather than pain.

A Proper Diagnosis Is Essential

Several other conditions, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other infections, can mimic the symptoms of IC. That’s why getting an accurate diagnosis is so important.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, reach out to a specialist like your urologist at Southland Urology for a comprehensive evaluation.

Managing Interstitial Cystitis

While there is no known cure for IC, many treatment options are available to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

First-line treatments often include:

• Medications
• Diet and lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking)
• Gentle physical activity
• Stress reduction
• Physical therapy, including Kegel exercises

Additional therapies may include:

• Botox injections
• Nerve stimulation
• Bladder procedures under anesthesia
• Surgery (in more severe cases)

Interstitial Cystitis Treatment Plans in Orange County, CA

Living with interstitial cystitis can be challenging, but support and treatment options are available. If you’re struggling with persistent bladder pain or urinary symptoms,Contact a board-certified urologist at Southland Urology at (714) 870-5970.

Getting the right diagnosis and care plan can make a lasting difference in your daily comfort and overall health.