Follow up after penile cancer treatment

After treatment for penile cancer, you have regular check ups at the hospital. You also have tests including blood tests, x-rays and scans. Over time, these appointments become less frequent. 

Why you have follow up appointments ?

You usually have follow up appointments to check how you are and see whether you have any problems or worries. The appointments also give you the chance to raise any concerns you have about your progress.

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How often are my appointments?

Your first appointment or check up is usually 2 to 4 weeks after leaving hospital. Then, your appointments will be every few months. They will gradually become less frequent. The check ups are often every 3 months for 2 years and then every 6 months for the next 3 years. Your team might keep in touch for up to 10 years, but your visits to the clinic will be much less.

You might go for appointments at the surgical outpatients after surgery. You go to the cancer clinic if you have had chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The surgeon and the oncologist might share your follow up. This means you see the surgeon sometimes and the oncologist at other times.

Contact your doctor or specialist nurse if you have any concerns. You should also contact them if you notice any new symptoms between appointments. You don’t have to wait until your next visit.

Many people find their check ups quite worrying. A hospital appointment can bring back any anxiety you had about your cancer.

It can help to tell someone close to you how you’re feeling. Sharing your worries can mean they don’t seem so overwhelming. Many people find it helpful to have counselling after cancer treatment.

What happens at the appointment?

Your doctor or nurse examines you at each appointment. They ask how you are feeling, whether you have had any symptoms or side effects, and if you are worried about anything. You might also have tests at some visits.

Tests may include:

• blood tests

• x-rays

• a CT scan

• an MRI scan

• ultrasound scans

You may also see other health professionals during these appointments.

You might be able to arrange to see a physiotherapist or counsellor through your doctor or nurse at the outpatient clinic.

You can also get support from community nurses.

Between appointments

Contact your doctor or specialist nurse if you have any concerns between appointments. You should also contact them if you notice any new symptoms. You don’t have to wait until your next visit.

Many people find their check ups quite worrying. A hospital appointment can bring back any anxiety you had about your cancer.

It can help to tell someone close to you how you’re feeling. Sharing your worries can mean they don’t seem so overwhelming. Many people find it helpful to have counselling during or after cancer treatment.

You can also find people to share experiences with by using our online forum, CancerChat.