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Hi - we’re on sort of similar paths. I’m 59, had my RP in January, some lymph nodes and some nerves removed as well. I’m also working with a pelvic floor therapist who specializes in treating men.

I saw no improvement whatsoever for two months, then my overnights got better. I used to get up every two hours and as soon as I’d stand, Niagara Falls in my underpants.

Now, I can generally go 3-4 hours, walk to the bathroom to pee, and the guard I wear at night is generally dry, just some spotting.

Daytime…not so much. I’ll still have the gush every once in a while upon standing, but usually, it’s more like a less urgent steady stream. About half the time, I can make it to the bathroom. I do get a lot more drips, dribbles, and squirts during the day - so daytime is better, but not great.

According to my cancer care team and my therapist, my case (and by extension, I’d say, your case) aren’t unusual. My main nurse told me initially not to expect any improvement at all for 2-3 months, then I’d see improvement overnight first, then eventually during the day.

I’ve also been told progress can plateau, which is where I’m at now, it seems, and then get better.

Lastly, from what they’re telling me and what I’ve read on my own, recovery is very individualized. The most common thing I see/hear is that improvement typically starts in the 3-6 month range and gets progressively better out to 18 months or so, and where you’re at at the 18-month point is probably as good as it’ll get. If you’re 90% continent by then, and just dripping a little when you laugh or cough, that’s considered a pretty good recovery.

I’m just taking it one day at a time, doing my exercises (three times a day) and following all the advice I get from my care team.

Good luck, hang in there!

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Replies to "Hi - we’re on sort of similar paths. I’m 59, had my RP in January, some..."

@turtbean

Thanks! It does sound like we're in very similar situations. I'm just frustrated because I don't see ANY daytime improvement. I'm wondering if I'm overdoing the exercises or the kegel contractions. I really appreciate you taking the time to write to me.