Struggles with sexual intimacy discussed by Kenny Logan concerning his wife Gabby, emphasizing the matter as something that should remain confidential within marriage.
In a heartfelt disclosure, former Scottish rugby international Kenny Logan revealed his prostate cancer diagnosis earlier this year. The father of two, who is married to broadcaster Gabby Logan, was diagnosed at the age of 50 during a routine wellness check.
The surge in prostate cancer cases has been noticeable, particularly in the wake of lockdowns and the Covid pandemic. A catch-up campaign for missed cases has resulted in an increase in the number of prostate cancer patients. Prostate cancer is now the most common type of tumor in England, with 55,033 men diagnosed in 2023, compared to 47,526 women with breast cancer, the next most common.
The charity Prostate Cancer UK is encouraging men to get checked sooner and increase the proportion of cases caught in early stages when they are more treatable.
Kenny, who met Gabby in a bar in Fulham, London in 1999, underwent surgery to remove his prostate. He has since shared his experiences to raise awareness about the disease.
Common effects on sex life after prostate cancer treatment include erectile dysfunction (ED), reduced libido, infertility, and discomfort during sex. These arise mainly due to the impact of treatments such as surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy on nerves, blood flow, hormone levels, and bodily function.
Specifically, around 75–85% of men report some degree of ED after treatment. ED can also be caused by hormone therapies that lower testosterone levels. Reduced sexual desire (libido) can also be a result of hormone therapy and the emotional stress of diagnosis and treatment. Treatments can affect sperm production or ejaculation, leading to possible infertility. Radiotherapy can cause bowel issues that make sex uncomfortable.
However, modern treatments and supportive care offer many options to maintain intimacy and quality of life. Management strategies include medications, devices, counseling and sex therapy, lifestyle changes, open communication, and the use of aids such as penis pumps. Recovery of sexual function can sometimes take 1–2 years post-treatment, and gradual improvement is possible.
Kenny has experienced erectile dysfunction as a result of his surgery. He used a penis pump to stimulate blood flow to the area when struggling to get an erection. According to the NHS, penis pumps can be a suitable aid if medicine is not advised or effective.
The Logans have twins, Reuben and Lois, who were born in 2005 after undergoing IVF treatment. They share two children together - 20-year-old twins Lois and Reuben.
Kenny found the 10 days following his surgery difficult, as he wore a catheter and experienced discomfort. However, he remains committed to raising awareness about prostate cancer and encouraging men to seek early treatment.
Sources:
- Mayo Clinic
- Prostate Cancer Foundation
- American Cancer Society
- NHS
- Prostate Cancer UK
In light of the rise in prostate cancer cases, it's crucial for men to prioritize their health-and-wellness, including regular checks for early detection. Given that prostate cancer is now the most common type of tumor in England, promoting mental-health and sexual-health awareness is equally important. Modern treatments can help manage the potential side effects like erectile dysfunction, as Kenny, a prostate cancer survivor, has experienced, offering solutions like penis pumps to maintain intimacy and quality of life.
