Hi Jackfan
I was PSA 5.6 then 5.9. Biopsy showed 3+4 and I was offered AS, RT or RALP. The MdT suggested that RALP would have the best outcome. I was 60 at the time and fit, healthy and have been sexually active all my life.
I had the RALP in May 2019 which confirmed 3+4. I am now on the quarterly PSA tracker and have had 4 consistent "Undetectable"Results. Continence: I am still using a Pad a day/night but this is pretty much for safety rather than continual leakage. I am a heavy alcohol user. I am also pretty physical all day.
ED. I am still sexually active albeit different with dry orgasms. I have a pump and have used Tad & Silden in varying degrees. This produces "Improvement " but by no means Erections like before, only 80%. Desire & Bloods all positive but I guess I still have problems with the nerve impulses. I had 50% sparing. This is obviously frustrating and depressing sometimes but one must stay focussed on the matter in hand & I for one have been on it every day !!!! I shall not be giving up any time soon.
So to sum up re side-effects: The greatest side effect is hopefully not having cancer any more.
Wishing you all the best on your journey.