John Goodridge
Sexually Active Pensioner
“I’ve survived cancer four times in total, but when I had my prostate removed in 2010 following a diagnosis of prostate cancer I suffered a common side effect – erectile dysfunction.”
At 77 years old I count myself very lucky to be here. I’ve survived cancer four times in total, but when I had my prostate removed in 2010 following a diagnosis of prostate cancer I suffered a common side effect – erectile dysfunction.
While prostate problems are incredibly common, the side effects are not so well known. I developed urinary incontinence after the operation but that soon passed. However, I found the effects of erectile dysfunction harder to ignore.
As a red-blooded male I was determined to find a way to return my libido, and despite my initial embarrassment, I was determined to keep going back to my doctor until we found a treatment that worked.
Over the next three years I found myself searching for the right treatment. I became depressed and confused mainly because although these conditions are well known, they are rarely talked about.
Men like to joke but it is women who are far more practical at getting themselves help.
While it wasn’t something I felt I could talk about openly, privately I was doing a lot of research.
I rejected the idea of injections for a few years just because it seemed like the idea of an injection in such a sensitive area was a big deal for me mentally, but while useful for some they didn’t have the desired effect either.
After tablets, pumps and finally injections failed me, I booked an appointment with my GP in 2013 to hear more about penile implants, delighted that they were available on the NHS.
This led me to the excellent care of the urology department who explained more about the minor operation and that after two days in hospital and six weeks rest, I would have a fully functioning sex life.
The past five years have been nothing short of wonderful. I was given a lesson on how to work the implant, which is very simple, and it has been a breakthrough both for myself and my partner, who has supported me through those difficult years.
My life now is as active as ever, the implant is incredibly small and very easy to use. I would recommend the treatment to anyone.
