Tips and advice for any sexual side effects of treatment
Take advantage of the Andrology Department at your local hospital. They will have lots of advice and support for you. Make sure you use the pump regularly to maintain good penis health.
Tips and advice for any mental and emotional side effects of treatment
I would definitely recommend going along to your local cancer charity. The Big C based in Norwich and Norfolk has been a massive support. Have been able to access some counseling sessions and they also offer alternatives such as massage and acupuncture.
How this treatment impacted my life the most
I had my radical prostatectomy when I was 50 years old. I have been impacted with low mood and some anxiety. My sex life with my wife has also been impacted as I've experienced erectile disfunction. But with support and patience this has improved (it's only been a year since my surgery). Being diagnosed with prostate cancer has definitely changed my outlook on life. I'll most probably take early retirement from teaching if the opportunity arises. I still get anxious just before my 3 monthly blood test. My PSA is undetectable 12 months on.
Why did I give this answer?
Because I was only 50 when I got my diagnosis, other treatments were limited. My Gleason score was 3+4 and the cancer was in all 4 quadrants of the prostate. Watchful waiting or active surveillance we're not an option.
