193: Richard and Pauline Story – A prostate cancer journey, 75 and back to preop function, it is possible!

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Melissa chats with Richard and Pauline, a 75-year-old couple who generously share their personal experience with prostate cancer—from diagnosis to recovery. They open up about the emotional and physical aspects of his journey, including the moment a routine PSA test led to further investigation and, eventually, robotic prostate surgery.  This conversation shines a light on topics that are often left unspoken: erectile dysfunction after surgery, managing incontinence, and maintaining penis health in the face of cancer treatment. Richard discusses the treatments he tried, including injections, penis pumps, oral medications, and a new nasal spray for ED—and what worked best for him.  They also talk about the role of partners during recovery. Richard speaks warmly about the support he received from his wife Pauline, and how her own journey with vaginal discomfort was improved with expert help from the vagina whisperer Kate.  Alongside medical insights, this episode explores the financial realities of treatment, highlights the importance of pre-surgical preparation (including pelvic floor exercises), and makes a compelling case for early PSA screening—particularly for men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.    Key Takeaways:  Why PSA testing and early detection matter  New nasal spray for Erectile Dysfunction- Spontan  How pelvic floor physiotherapy helps with recovery and incontinence  Treatment options for erectile dysfunction post-surgery  The benefits of maintaining penis health after prostate cancer  The impact of a supportive partner and professional team  Federal and State government support available for incontinence products    Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  https://spontan.hck.digital/patient-zone   https://www.pelvichug.com/ Louise Hug   For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au   Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS)- federal Australian government https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/continence-aids-payment-scheme-caps   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Richard. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.  Email: [email protected]  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/    https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   http://prost.com.au/  Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/  TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA