Support for the LGBTQIA+ Community with Prostate Cancer

Gay and bisexual men have no increased risk of prostate cancer as compared to straight men. Neither oral nor anal sex increases the risk of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is not caused by one’s sexual orientation.

However, studies have shown that gay and bisexual men are more negatively impacted by the side effects of prostate cancer than straight men are. The impact on intimacy for gay and bisexual men is particularly profound.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common side effect after prostate cancer treatment. Much of the focus on side effect management after prostate cancer treatment is on ED and may ignore the needs of gay and bisexual men. Other possible issues that may be of concern to men who have sex with men include:

• Loss of ejaculatory function
• Changes in rectal and prostate sensitivity
• Changes in anal intercourse due to the removal of the prostate

Talking with your partner and with your doctor and utilizing resources may help you navigate these difficulties.

Information resources:

• Prostate Cancer in Gay and Bisexual Men brochure
• Localized prostate cancer treatment considerations for gay and bisexual men
• Northwestern Medicine Gay and Bisexual Men’s Urology Program Videos:
  • Prostate Cancer in Gay and Bisexual Men
  • Prostate Cancer in Gay and Bisexual Men: The Intersectional Racial-Sexual Minority Experience

Although prostate cancer is often described as a male cancer (including on this website), the reality is that anyone who was born with a prostate can develop prostate cancer. We’re still learning about the impact that transitional hormones and gender-confirming surgery can have on the risk of prostate cancer. If you have a doctor you trust, that is the best person to talk to about your specific risk. Prostate Cancer Canada also has a very detailed and well-cited page about the effects of gender-confirming surgery and transitional hormones on prostate cancer risk, screening, and diagnosis for trans women.

It can be emotionally difficult to have a male-associated cancer as someone who does not identify as male, especially since most prostate cancer support groups and resources are targeted at men. Consider building a support network of friends, family, or counselors with whom you feel comfortable discussing your prostate cancer diagnosis. MaleCare can also connect you with social workers who can help you. Additionally, Prostate Cancer UK is trialing an online support group for trans women.

Although we often use male terms and pronouns, they are not meant to exclude transgender women or gender-nonconforming individuals. If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, take a look at the rest of our website to gather more information about the disease.

Having a doctor with whom you can be open about your sexual orientation or gender identity is important. Because prostate cancer can affect gay men and transgender women differently than cisgender or straight men, being out to your doctor can help you get the best possible care.

You can find resources for coming out to your doctor at the Human Rights Campaign.

Find an LGBTQ+ friendly healthcare provider near you at the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Directory.