Tips and advice for any sexual side effects of treatment
I used GP prescribed medication to help obtain a full erection e.g. Sildenafil or Tadalafil. They work! I can now ( 5 years after my prostatectomy) obtain an erection without the need for medication.
How this treatment impacted my life the most
Not able to drive for a few weeks after surgery! Briefly, after surgery I found the catheter and associated urine collection bag awkward to live with, until it was removed! For a short period after the catheter was removed I had urinary incontinence. I wore pads when going out. I regained urinary continence fairly quickly by doing the pelvic floor exercises.
Why did I give this answer?
It was successful and in my opinion by choosing to have a prostatectomy there was less risk of potentially harmful side effects/damage to adjacent organs of alternative treatment that was offered to me e.g. brachytherapy. The medical care I received in Manchester was superb. Also I strongly recommend cancer patients visit their nearest "Maggie's Centre" ; in Manchester. Maggie's Centre provided me and many other patients with invaluable emotional, practical, psychological and morale boosting support during my recovery period. They also provide an endless supply of tea, coffee and biscuits to visitors. A Maggie's Centre is a great place to visit after an outpatient's appointment at the hospital to relax and take stock and if needed, seek a sympathetic ear.
