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Prostate Cancer Recovery

Decent Essays

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOSEXUAL ADJUSTMENT OF PROSTATE CANCER

Sexual dysfunction represents a prevalent long-term complication among prostate cancer survivors with a wide spectrum of manifestations and a huge impact on quality of life [4]. Resnick et al (2013) reported long-term effects of sexual function after radical prostate cancer treatment reported by prostate cancer survivors. As shown in a 15-yr follow-up study consisted of 1655 men who had localized prostate cancer the decline in erectile function following treatment is progressive, regardless of treatment type (eg, surgery, radiation therapy). (20)

Unfortunately all treatment for prostate cancer can impact ED. While there are a number of medical options for managing this, the emotional and psychological impact can be profound. It is important that the patient is prepared for the likely possibility that recovery of ED will take a long time. There are numerous treatments available to try before any improvements may be seen, patients should view this recovery as rehabilitation. (21)
When analysing ED from a psychological perspective, the sense of a mans masculine identity being affected can be a very distressful. Masculinity is a term used to describe a set of key characteristics that is used to define a man as opposed …show more content…

Counselling patients and partners that the sexual recovery process can take time and persistence to reduce anger and frustration during the process. Both patients and their partners need to appreciate that their previous sex life will be changed. Discussing the challenges associated with ED treatments with patients early—before primary prostate cancer treatment—should promote resilience in the presence of erectile failure and circumvent demoralization because of repeated ED treatments that are not fully restorative.

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