Urology. Defined in the Oxford dictionary as the branch of medicine concerned with the function and disorders of the urinary system. It’s always been a sensitive topic and often leads to not getting the medical attention that is required when a problem occurs in this area. In fact, according to the research done by Bupa, one in five UK adults who have experienced potential cancer symptoms, have not seen a doctor due to being too embarrassed to go.
In this blog, we take a look at the Community to help break down the stigma of embarrassment and taking better precautions to look after our urological health. Listed below are the different areas in the urological system than can be affected by cancer. They are as follows:
Each link contains valuable information such as how to self-examine, what signs to look out for and what treatments are commonly used to treat the cancer. It’s always important to note that if you feel something unusual, it’s important that you see your GP. Using the internet to search for your symptoms is often a worrying experience, that’s why if you have any doubts, you should get examined by a medical professional.
You can access our Causes and Risk Factors page. The information on this page has been put together by our Cancer Information Development team and it aims to provide you with a good understanding about what you can do to try and limit your chances of getting urological cancer.
Whilst it’s good to have some information available, sometimes you may find it beneficial to access some support from others who may be in a similar scenario to yourself. This is where the Community comes in.
It’s often we can find ourselves in a worrying scenario but can’t shake off the feeling of embarrassment. It’s a natural feeling that all humans have built into them and it can be hard to shut out, especially if there is an issue involving anything relating to the urological system.
“I can’t be sure I’m only fairly young so am embarrassed to go to the doctor or my parents.”
Online Community Member, Testicular Cancer Forum
Every person is different, so it’s natural to assume that everyone’s attitude to appointments will vary. The Community demonstrates fantastic ways of encouraging others to leave their insecurities behind in favour of health.
“I actually look forward to them as they can be very reassuring. As regards the embarrassment side of things, we need to leave this at the door.”
Online Community Member, Bladder Cancer Forum
It’s often easier said than done regarding leaving embarrassment at the door. However, another interesting take is to mentally, take another approach.
“I have always tried to treat them with humour as it is a very unusual situation to be in.”
Online Community Member, Bladder Cancer forum
Often, we can find ourselves in a difficult situation and it’s the reassurance of others that helps those to insecurities to disappear.
“Just being a big baby and feeling totally humiliated, embarrassed and a shamed about the whole procedure. And off course scared about the results and the fact there will be have a dozen people in the room also.”
Online Community Member, Prostate Cancer forum
A member then reached out in support to help put their mind at ease.
“You tend to keep your eyes on the screen rather than watch what is going on down there. Takes 10 minutes tops. You also tend to worry about what they may see rather than the procedure. I hope it goes well. Best wishes.”
Online Community Member, Prostate Cancer forum
Just basic reassurance is enough to calm a worried mind with words of appreciation following.
“Thank you from a big baby.”
Online Community Member, Prostate Cancer forum
Please feel free to take a look at some of the resources that are available relating to this blog:
To conclude, it is important to remember that embarrassment is a natural feeling and there is no right or wrong way to feel before an appointment. At the end of the day, the most important thing of all is our health. No matter how you’re feeling, remember, you are not alone. The Community is right there with you.
