Exploring patient narratives of intimacy and sexuality among men with prostate cancer

The burden of prostate cancer is considerable, with some men needing treatment to slow the growth of tumors, and others requiring surgery to remove the prostate gland. Such medical and surgical treatments for prostate cancer can increase men's risk for impotence and urinary incontinence, leading to physical and emotional distress. Using a qualitative descriptive design involving semi-structured interviews, we asked men (n = 20) who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer to describe their psychosocial needs and experiences. Within these patient narratives were elements of personal and interpersonal loss, vulnerability, stigma, and self-blame. Based on our thematic analysis, we identified three themes: 1) I'm not 18 anymore, 2) Nothing below the waistline, and 3) It's a family affair. Our objective in this paper is to highlight the ways in which men's sexual health and intimate relationships are affected by prostate cancer. Discussed are the clinical implications of the findings for supporting individuals and couples affected by prostate cancer.