What's it like living with Erectile Dysfunction?

We know it can be an isolating experience, filled with questions and uncertainty. And so does Andy Barham, who shares his personal, real-life journey with ED.

Andy takes us through when he received his initial diagnosis and the emotional impact it had on his life and relationship. The various treatments he explored, and his ultimate decision to get a penile implant.

If you've been personally affected by ED, a partner of someone with ED, or just seeking to understand the patient experience, Andy’s story will help.

You'll learn:

• The emotional and psychological toll of living with erectile dysfunction
• The steps and considerations that led Andy to choose a penile implant over other treatments
• The process of the implant procedure from a patient's point of view
• What to expect after having an implant
• Andy's advice for other men, and their partners, who are navigating a similar journey

About our guest

Andy Bahram is 64 years old, married since 2007, with two children from his first marriage, a granddaughter and a grandson, who he spoils rotten.

In 2012 Andy was diagnosed with prostate cancer and had it removed just before Xmas that same year. As is often the case following prostate ops, Andy was left with erectile dysfunction.

Despite trying the usual medicinal options, it soon became apparent that his ED was not going to be a short term issue. After almost 2 years of trying all sorts of ‘remedies’, Andy found that the only thing which gave him some semblance of an erection was a self-administered injection. Andy could not accept this as his only option for the future.

As a result of the ED problems, Andy also suffered an extended bout of depression. After lots of investigations online and arguments with his consultant, Andy was finally referred for a penile implant in 2015. It completely changed his life and returned him to almost ‘normal’.

Since then Andy has written a book (see below) about his experiences. He has worked closely with Coloplast as a patient advocate and conference speaker.

You can stick that up your arse! An account, by two brothers, of their personal journeys, which will hopefully do for prostate cancer what ‘50 Shades’ did for sadomasochism.

Available via Amazon.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for any personal health concerns.

Straight To The Point is brought to you by Coloplast.

Hosted by Clare Akers and Dr Fabio Castiglione.

Produced by Vibrant Sound Media.