138. Meet Brian and Vanessa - Recovery, Injections, Lymphedema, and 2-3 Rounds

138. Meet Brian and Vanessa - Recovery, Injections, Lymphedema, and 2-3 Rounds

Author: Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett May 30, 2023 Duration: 28:36
Brian had his prostate surgery in September 2021 and his recovery went pretty smoothly. He only needed to wear pads for a couple of weeks. Surprisingly, he decided to try his first injection less than four weeks after the surgery. The sight of the tools was frightful, but hey, the results were pretty, pretty, good! The only downside was feeling a bit uncomfortable while driving on the freeway.  Come March, Brian met Vanessa and faced the challenge of navigating a new relationship after prostate surgery. However, they had the necessary conversation about Brian's circumstance, and their relationship flourished.   Brian didn’t have a super smooth journey though since in the middle of his newfound romance was the occurrence of lymphedema. However, with a great mindset and a trusting partner, he was able to overcome it - by using bandages.   Brian emphasises the importance of having that difficult first conversation about prostate cancer with a partner. He believes that without having that conversation, nothing will progress, and encourages others to openly discuss their experiences.  This is an inspiring story about finding love despite being a bit floppy!  ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ 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 BarrettLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

For anyone who’s ever felt alone or confused about a sexual health issue, The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health provides a rare and essential space for honest dialogue. Hosted by Australian Nurse Practitioner and Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett, this podcast emerged in 2020 from a collaboration with physiotherapist Jo Milios, born from a shared frustration with the silence and stigma surrounding men's bodies. The show has since grown into a substantial resource, with nearly 200 episodes and over 219,000 streams, reflecting its vital role. What you’ll hear here isn’t just theoretical; Melissa blends her clinical expertise with direct, anonymized conversations from her practice, often including the perspectives of patients and their partners. This approach transforms each episode into a nuanced exploration of real-life concerns-from erectile function and pelvic pain to intimacy and communication-topics that are routinely avoided yet universally impactful. The discussions are grounded in science but delivered with a relatable, compassionate tone that makes complex information accessible. Tuning into this podcast means joining a community where awkward questions are welcomed, evidence replaces myth, and personal stories illuminate the path to better health. It’s a practical guide for men and those who care about them, dismantling embarrassment one conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health
Podcast Episodes
189: Frank’s Journey: Prostate Cancer, Data, and Milestones [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:38
In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, we sit down with Frank, a 74-year-old prostate cancer survivor who has meticulously tracked his recovery through data and milestones. Frank’s journey is a testament to the po…
187: Let’s Talk About Painful Sex: Vulvas and Vaginas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:47
This episode gets real as Melissa and Kate talk to Shannon who opens up about her personal experience with painful sex and vulvodynia and vaginismus. She shares how these challenges have shaped her live, relationships, a…
184: Prostate cancer and testosterone levels – a lived experience. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:43
In this episode, Melissa and Shane dive deep into health topics encountered by Shane, including personal experiences with prostate cancer, low testosterone, and hormone replacement therapy. They cover: Health Management…
183: A gay man’s journey through prostate cancer. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:30
In this episode, Melissa welcomes Richard, a 71-year-old gay man, who shares his journey through prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, offering an honest look into the physical, emotional, and relational ch…
180: Mr David Dangerfield – You can rewire your penis! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:28
This is another exciting episode which came highly requested by you, The Penis Project audience. We have interviewed David previously on the podcast in episode 46, and two patients who have undergone this procedure (epis…