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Chris's Story

Ethnicity
White British
Age
70-79
Work
Retired
Sexual Orientation
Straight
Geography
North West
Relationship status
Married/In a Civil Partnership
Listen

Radical Prostatectomy (Surgery)

Tips and advice for any bladder or bowel side effects of treatment

I've had no support from the incontinence clinic in my area so reverted to modifying ladies incontinence pads. which works for me.

Tips and advice for any sexual side effects of treatment

It's obvious after the operation. They remove the prostate so the doctor has to join the bits up and you lose some length. It's a bit of a shock in reality and knocks your self esteem sideways. Pumps and tablets help, but don't and I suppose can't replace what's taken away.

Tips and advice for any mental and emotional side effects of treatment

I was given the all-clear on my post op consultation and a downgrade of the Gleeson from a 4:3 to a 3:4. Happy at the time and in follow ups, also realising I may have had a lucky escape. Still, I do have mood changes and a short temper, and days when I become depressed because of my actual physical appearance. I wouldn't even dream of going to a gym anymore.

How this treatment impacted my life the most

My treatment from diagnosis to operation and recovery was excellent. Doctors, nurses and support staff brilliant...all of them.

If I had to do it all over again, would I choose the same treatment?

Yes

Why did I give this answer?

The operation had the highest success rate, so was a no brainer

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