kzimm
Regular
Joined: 16 May 2007
Posts: 14
|
 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2008 2:22 pm Post subject: Progress really DOES happen! |
 |
|
Hello, all.
Since this could apply to a number of different posts, it's easier to disseminate info through a new one.
There's been much discussion about returning to normal function after RP; incontinence, ED, etc., mostly people asking what to expect. This, of course, is a very different outcome one patient to the next, so some might be able to relate - others, not.
I had a standard, retropubic radical prostatectomy the first week of June '07. My surgeon said he spared the nerves and told me I might have some return of normal erectile function within 9-12 months of surgery. Like many (if not most) I was prescribed a daily, low dosage of Viagra afterwards. Thank goodness for samples, as I was able to continue ED medication of one brand or another for two months without going broke. However, there was no apparent effect on ED...I only had the faith that the extra blood flow was a good thing.
I'd pretty much given up on treating the ED, just remaining hopeful that the doc was on target with his 9-12 month recovery period. An occasional full dosage of Cialis or Levitra was tried, but again...no results.
Having gone on a medication hiatus for 5 months or so, but maintaining a small supply of Viagra, my wife and I decided to try again, 10-1/2 months after surgery. SUCCESS!
Relief is the biggest result (no pun intended)...relief that progress does really happen. And while 10-1/2 months is a long time to wait, it was worth it, and makes the future seem a little brighter. And along with PSA tests coming in "below detectable limits", it becomes much easier to accept the prostate cancer experience.
I hope others going through this will find a little less stress over their current ED complications of RP surgery. Keep working at it...keep up the kegels, have faith and give it time. The latter is perhaps the most difficult of these, and although a rare commodity these days, patience just might reward you, too, in the future.
Best to all.
_________________
Kzimm |
|
Search 
Email Digests
Register to post
Profile 
Check private messages 
Log in
What is this ?
We subscribe to the HONcode principles. Verify here. All content and posts are copyright.
