Dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) during and after cancer treatment can be a challenging and sensitive topic for many men. In this blog, we’ll delve into the experiences of our Community members. Sharing their valuable insight on how they navigated the emotional and physical aspects of ED. Additionally, we’ll discuss sexual health and intimacy, challenging the notion of a “normal” sex life.
Here in the online Community, no subject is taboo, and our goal is to have safe spaces where members can chat freely about what they are going through. Recently, members of our Prostate cancer forum shared honestly about their struggles with ED, seeking advice and suggestions from their peers.
When seeking advice in the Online Community, it’s important to keep in mind that members are asked to share from their own experiences. Everyone is unique in how they respond to surgery and treatment, and we always recommend talking to your GP or medical team as the first port of call.
Other members of the Prostate cancer forum shared what has helped them when dealing with ED after cancer treatment.
The emotional and physical effects of a cancer diagnosis can affect how you and your partner feel about sex. Insecurities about sex, or feeling something is wrong, can have a big impact on how you feel about yourself. It’s important to remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all definition of a “normal” sex life, whether before, during or after treatment.
Numerous ways exist to experience pleasure and nurture intimacy in your relationship. Exploring alternative forms of physical intimacy, such as sensual touching, oral sex or incorporating sex toys, can be immensely pleasurable and fulfilling. A sex therapist may be able to help you cope or find different ways to enjoy sex.
If you’re having trouble with sex after cancer treatment, it’s not always easy to talk about it. In this video, psychosexual nurse specialist, Lorraine Grover, talks about how you can approach the conversation.
The online Community serves as a safe and anonymous space where members can openly share their experiences and thoughts. Some members may not have the same experience but are able to provide valuable insights and advice to others. This insightful contribution came from a member who took the time to share some of her thoughts about intimacy and sexuality.
In the bladder cancer forum, one Community member wrote about maintaining intimacy despite physical obstacles.
If you have been struggling during or after your cancer treatment, there are people in the Community who would love to support you. Why not visit the Online Community and post in a forum that is relevant to you?
If you have experienced ED and would like to share your own experiences, please leave us a comment below.
If you are worried about ED or other forms of sexual functions, you can talk to your cancer doctor, specialist nurse or healthcare provider before, during or after your treatment. They can give you advice about support or treatments that may help. Try not to let embarrassment stop you from asking for help. Your healthcare team are used to talking about sex. In addition, you can read about treating erection problems here.
If you are battling with your sexual health, sexual desire, or other sexual problems, you may benefit from reading what our experts have written in “cancer and your sex life".
Prostate Cancer UK also offers a sexual support service where they can offer information and support about the impact of treatment on a person’s sexual activity.
If you are struggling mentally or emotionally, there is support available for you. Through our partnership with BUPA, Macmillan is offering up to six sessions of free one-on-one counselling to people who have been diagnosed with cancer which can be quickly and easily accessed without any waiting lists. If you would like to explore whether our BUPA counselling service might be right for you, all you need to do is contact our Macmillan Support Line and ask our teams about the service. Our Support Line is available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat.
