IMPLANT SURGERY: FEARS AND ANXIETIES ABOUT A NEW PROSTHESIS
It’s common to have certain fears and anxieties about a new prosthesis. A man may be concerned he will hurt himself or his partner with the implant. Having slow, gentle intercourse a few times will help him realize he doesn’t have to worry. The prosthesis is designed to be sturdy, and is quite resistant to breaking. (The mechanical failures of the inflatable are not directly related to vigorous intercourse, and there’s really not much you or your partner can do to break it. Anything that doesn’t hurt you won’t hurt the implant itself.) You may, however, find that you need to modify your positions during intercourse. Some couples find sex more comfortable with the woman on top.
A woman who has gone without intercourse for a while may find sex a little uncomfortable at first, because her vagina may have tightened. But taking intercourse very slowly can really help. Enough lubrication is a must, and a water-soluble lubricant can be helpful. If pain persists, a woman should see her gynecologist.
Part of the adjustment process is becoming so comfortable that you forget about the implant. Just because you are always able to get an erection doesn’t mean you will always want to have intercourse. In fact, for some men, body image is a major factor in their satisfaction with the implant. For example, Gilbert recovered from the surgery, but later developed health problems which prevented him from having intercourse. However, “just the look and size of the penis helps our morale,” he says, referring to the satisfaction he and his wife feel. “We think this is an important point even though we are not using it for actual intercourse.” This elderly man also reports that his wife makes him feel good. “She praises the way look. She enjoys touching and holding me.”
What is important is that you feel comfortable and secure using the implant, and feel that it is a part of your body. If you and your partner have trouble adjusting, ask your physician to recommend a sex therapist, preferably one who is experienced in dealing with implant patients and their partners.
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