Chemotherapy sessions finished
In February 2021 I was diagnosed with high grade muscle invasive bladder cancer. What a journey I embarked on. The chemotherapy was tough and have been hospitalised with uti and urosepsis and pneumonia.
My oncologist gave me the news that the chemotherapy had shrunk my tumour and I am now a candidate for either radical surgery or radiation.
I’ve spent months researching my cancer and am not willing to take the chance of my cancer returning so have chosen radical surgery. Knowing this surgery is life changing I’m finding myself loosing sleep over what my future will look like .
My husband and I have only been married 5 years and I’m only 58 so I am looking for advice on how can you return to a healthy pain free sex life
Thanking you in advance for any advice
Hi Sue,
I'm so sorry to hear about your diagnosis but I am thrilled to hear that treatment seems to be going well. We have a fantastic group of advocates who are very familiar with radical cystectomy and the changes to a female body. I would definitely suggest this article - https://bladdercancer.net/living/sexual-health, and https://bladdercancer.net/living/cystectomy-sex-womans-perspective.
I hope these help!Warmly,
Amanda (BladderCancer.net Team Member)thank you very much for responding
Of course! 
@SueB2703 - RC is definitely a daunting decision but I am happy that you are reaching out. I had it 7 years ago and it is just a distant memory. I have a great life and am very active. My suggestion would be to discuss with your surgeon what he/she needs and plans to remove. I have heard of women who do not have all of their female organs removed so that would be a discussion you would have. It may depend on the location of the tumors but I would ask away prior to your procedure. Good luck to you. Linda ( moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
thank you x
