Body image and sexuality after treatment for prostate cancer
Content provided by Healthwise
Body image and sexuality after treatment for prostate cancer
It is normal to experience anger, frustration, or disappointment following treatment for prostate cancer.
Treatment can damage normal tissue and cause side effects, such as bladder problems and erection problems, that can change your quality of life.
It is not unusual to feel confusion, anxiety, guilt, stress, or depression because of the changes in your body. These psychological factors are often most troublesome after treatment ends.
Often the stress of being diagnosed with cancer and the treatment that follows can cause stress in other areas of your life. This stress can cause problems within your sexual relationships. Men who do not have partners often stop dating altogether because they feel that a potential partner might reject them because of their history of cancer.
These problems are not unusual and can be solved. Your doctor can refer you to organizations that can offer support and information. Talk openly about your concerns with your partner. If you are having problems being intimate with your partner, discuss this with your doctor. You may also contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society to help you find a support group. Talking with other people who may have had similar feelings can be very helpful.
Credits
| Author | Bets Davis, MFA |
| Editor | Maria Essig |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology |
| Last Updated | June 27, 2008 |
| Last updated: | June 27, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA |
| Reviewed By: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
