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Ian and Jane's Story

Ethnicity
White British
Age
60-69
Work
Retired
Sexual Orientation
Straight
Geography
South West
Relationship status
Married/In a Civil Partnership
Listen

Radiotherapy

Tips and advice for any sexual side effects of treatment

I think it is so dependent on your age and circumstances. Everyone is different. My sex life was non existent before the treatment so not being able to have an erection etc does not bother me. Someone I know who is much younger with a young wife is very bothered by the side effects and has taken many steps - medical and surgical to overcome the issue.

Tips and advice for any physical side effects of treatment

I can only say just accept it, if it's not bothering you too much.

The swelling in my legs is as far as I am concerned just a consequence of putting on weight all over. As I was never very hairy the loss of body hair is of little consequence to me

How this treatment impacted my life the most

The time taken to physically prepare for it mostly whilst at the treatment centre but also being mindful of the advance requirement and then some anxiety about the immediate side effects - on the journey home for instance. Having to get to the hospital 20 times with trouble parking there every time did make me feel anxious.

Hot flushes, night sweats, bowel and bladder problems all impacting my ability to sleep

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

Yes

Why did I give this answer?

It seems to have worked although it could be the hormone therapy that I started immediately after the MRI scan results could have had the same effect.

Its the price I have to pay for having the cancer. I am getting over the side effects and for me I think its a necessary evil.

Hormone Therapy (injections and relugolix tablets)

Tips and advice for any physical side effects of treatment

The weight increase and in particular big increase around my waist has meant new clothes - an expense as a pensioner I could do without. But the importance is to have the treatment for my health/life.

How this treatment impacted my life the most

Hot flushes, night sweats, increased waist and fatty thighs

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

Yes

Why did I give this answer?

Got to get better

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