The Storied Narratives of Partners of Those Who Have Undergone a Prostatectomy

Prostate cancer is perceived as a "couple's disease"; the diagnosis and treatment impact the patient-partner relationship. To explore the storied narratives of a partner and their relationship with their loved one who has undergone a radical prostatectomy (RP) to treat prostate cancer. This qualitative interpretive study used narrative analysis to understand how participants construct stories and narratives from their personal experiences. This approach provides insight into the partners' experiences, relationship changes post-RP, and barriers. Two overarching themes emerged: (1) partners' experience with the cancer diagnosis and (2) partners' experience with RP treatment. Seven main themes emerged as areas of significance related to the patient-partner relationship: (1) changing the relationship, (2) intimacy (including sexual and emotional intimacy), (3) desire for support, (4) managing disruption, (5) loss of control, (6) elevating partner's needs, and (7) protecting affected partner. This study suggests that the post-RP relationship between the participant and their loved one improved or stayed the same; however, the sexual intimacy was negatively impacted, whereas the emotional intimacy was deepened. This study's findings highlight the need for ongoing education, resources, and support for the partner. Support resources must be cultivated and offered to partners, and a "projected timeline" must be created to assist partners in managing the disruption and the feeling of loss of control. Incorporating relationship and caregiver counseling, sex education, and therapy can significantly impact the post-RP relationship.