Hello Ken and thanks for posting

I'm sorry to read about your situation. It's understandable to be frightened by the thought of using a catheter and being incontinent, especially when you are so active and independent.

Choosing radiotherapy, or even stepping away from treatment altogether are not decisions to rush or take lightly. Degarelix alone can often keep the cancer under control for a while, but it's usually not a cure. Some men do choose hormone treatment alone, especially if quality of life is a major concern. But this does come with the risk of the cancer becoming resistant further down the line.

I think it is important that you discuss this further with your specialist team . Talking to the team of doctors and nurses involved in your care can be the most helpful as they know all about your individual cancer as they are familiar with all your medical details. Talking to family or friends can also be useful.

You may find it helpful to know that Prostate Cancer UK have an online forum and you may find it helpful talking to other men going through similar things and hear about their different experiences. 

I hope this is of some help, Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene

Just joined regarding one of your concerns Ken.

We are similar age and PSA level. I was fitted with an indwelling catheter in early 2024.

I have had no particular problems.A nurse calls every 12 weeks to change it and it was of great benefit in enabling me sleep through the night and to continue to play my sport or to go out without constant trips to the loo.

My catheter is permanent.A friend had the TURPS procedure  and self catheterised for a period (including a holiday to the States) and said it was not a problem.He no longer needs one.

I didn’t have much say when the catheter was first installed but can only say that you may well find it less worrying than you think.