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Michael's Story

Ethnicity
White British
Age
70-79
Work
Retired
Sexual Orientation
Straight
Geography
South East
Relationship status
In a relationship
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Hormone Therapy (injections and relugolix tablets)

Tips and advice for any sexual side effects of treatment

Viagra helps somewhat.

How this treatment impacted my life the most

It reduced my interest in and ability to enjoy a sexual relationship.

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

Not sure

Why did I give this answer?

Due to delays in the NHS due to lack of resources and Covid the treatment went on too long.

Radiotherapy

Tips and advice for any physical side effects of treatment

It is important to rest while having radiotherapy: foolishly I tried to carry on working as we were involved in a major project. I should have simply called in sick.

How this treatment impacted my life the most

I was exhausted most of the time, had to get up several times a night to pee which was then painful, sometimes agonisingly so.

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

Yes

Why did I give this answer?

Radiotherapy seems the most effective form of treatment if you want to avoid surgery. It is not without side effects. I was fortunate enough during this phase of my treatment to have private health insurance, which meant I could leave the NHS and visit a private clinic; have a gel shield to protect my bowel (very important - I would have paid for this had it not been covered); and some after-care.

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