Thanks for letting me join. I have had a radical cystectomy with removal of my prostate and I was wondering if any body else has had the same operation. I had operation in February this year ?
Hi Mike147,Welcome to the group.There are quite a few of us on here who have had a radical cystectomy.I expect the men will be along to share their experiences.I had mine almost 2 years ago and have a stoma.How are you getting on ? Best wishes Jane
Yes, I had the double job at about the same time that you had yours done. Not a holiday in the sun, and the first few months were not easy. I wondered if I would ever live a normal life again. Now I am running, cycling, and kayaking, and life is more or less as normal. I am 74. I've lost a bit of weight, and I am not quite at pre-op fitness levels but getting there. The pee bag is comfortable - I hardly know it is there - although changing the kit is a bit of a chore. Lots of people have had the "double" so you are not alone. I wish you well and hope you new plumbing is working magic for you!!
Hi thanks for the reply veterananrunner as I said I dont have a bag as had reconstructed bladder out of a piece of my bowel. Dont get me wrong I am greatfull of the hospital taking my cancer away but I'm 52 and it's presented me with more problems ??
Sorry to hear that you are having problems. I can't give you any tips because I have completely different replacement plumbing, but there is sure to be someone on this site with a reconstructed bladder who can advise you. With good wishes.
I'm female with reconstruction, had mine 10yrs ago. It is difficult at first, getting control of continence etc. You are still in relatively early days with yours. What sort of problems are you having?
I'm male and because I have had my prostate out I can't get a erection as have tried tablets but nothing works. So I was wondering if anybody had any suggestions ?
Worth asking your consultant. From what I've read in posts elsewhere, there are options such as injections & pumps. I would also add that when people talk about RC as being the end of a sex life, there is more to a sex life than straightforward intercourse. May not be the same, but can still be loving and rewarding.
Mike147 - some sound sense from Teasswill. I have the same problem but it doesn't bother me too much partly because I am 22 years older than you are. Definitely worth having a chat to your consultant - don't be shy: it is a very common problem. Hope you get it resolved.
Hi Mike I had same op over 2 and a half years ago and same problem. I have been on sidenafil , Viagra for about a year and can get a slight reaction. I have tried the pump but no luck. It is very disheartening but at the same time I am alive. My wife is very understanding but it was something I hadn't thought about at 48 when I had it. Some people on here have had some reaction and I think over a longer time you may find some reaction. Like everyone says be honest my bladder specialist nurse put me in touch with people to help, the pump etc.
It's a massive operation on tour body and mentally too it has an impact. Time to recover properly may help, best of luck.
All done in 2017. It takes a bit of time to recover and I also had incidental prostate cancer, which was discovered during the op. In 2019, I had my right kidney removed due to surgery complications.
Horror story? Yes, but not common. More importantly, my health is very good and my prognosis is good. You will be surprised how quick you will adjust to the new you and how normal your life will be, but it is important to take your time and not reluctant to ask for help and advice. Especially on this site.
