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The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health

Latest episodes

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Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 5min

198: The Recovering Man: Life After Prostate Cancer with Mish Middelmann

In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Nurse Practitioner and Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett chats with Mish Middelmann — a prostate cancer survivor, men’s leadership coach, and founder of The Recovering Man. Mish is also the author of a book about sex beyond erections, called Beyond Erections - reclaiming sexual pleasure and intimacy with erectile differences. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019, Mish shares his raw and insightful journey of treatment, recovery, and rebuilding life as a man post-cancer. From Johannesburg to Canada, his story spans continents and emotions — and ultimately, his experience led him to create a space for other men navigating the often-silent challenges of prostate cancer recovery.  Mish now supports men and their partners through personalised coaching, offering emotional guidance, tools for self-reinvention, and a path toward rediscovering identity and intimacy. He also speaks about the recent release of his book — including why the original title sparked controversy and was later renamed.    In This Episode, We Cover:  Mish’s prostate cancer diagnosis and the decisions he faced  The physical and psychological recovery process after treatment  How prostate cancer affects male identity, sexuality, and relationships  The importance of support networks for both men and their partners  His work as a men’s health coach and the creation of The Recovering Man  The evolving conversation around masculinity, vulnerability, and healing  Insights from his newly released book on finding sexual pleasure without relying on hard erections.   Key Takeaways:  Life after prostate cancer is about more than just surviving — it’s about reclaiming who you are. Mish encourages men to explore healing not only of the body but also of self-image, connection, and purpose.    Resources & Links:  Book a confidential consult, in clinic or on telehealth, with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au   Visit The Recovering Man: https://www.recoveringman.net/  – Coaching, articles, and resources for men navigating life after prostate cancer.   Book by Mish Middelmann: Beyond Erections available as paperback or eBook. Details at www.beyonderections.com/book.   Learn more about men’s sexual health services: www.rshealth.com.au  Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, subscribe to the podcast and help us reach more men by rating and reviewing the show. Because penile health matters — and it’s time we talked about it.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Mish. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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Jun 17, 2025 • 52min

197: Body Mapping, Breath & Balance: The Art of Psychosomatic Therapy with Frida

In this special episode, Melissa connects with longtime friend and renowned psychosomatic therapist Frida, founder of Body Nature Therapies in Byron Bay. Frida shares her personal and professional journey—from a background in fine arts to pioneering her Body Mapping Method, a therapeutic process that bridges the body-mind connection.  Frida explains what psychosomatic therapy really is (hint: it’s simpler than you think!), and how disconnection between body and mind often lies at the root of illness, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction. With wisdom grounded in yoga, Ayurveda, remedial bodywork, and Eastern and Western healing philosophies, she shares how aligning your physical form can profoundly impact your mental and emotional wellbeing.  From postural alignment to pelvic floor balance and the power of the breath, this conversation uncovers the life-changing benefits of reconnecting to your body—especially for men dealing with erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or post-cancer recovery.  In This Episode, We Cover:  What is psychosomatic therapy—and how can it help?  Frida’s journey from artist to bodyworker to therapist  The Body Mapping Method: what it is, how it works, and why it’s so powerful  How posture and muscle tone affect sexual function, stress, and overall health  Real-life client transformations through simple body realignment and breathwork  Why balance (front/back, top/bottom) in the body is essential—especially for men  The link between gym routines, hypertonic pelvic floors, and erectile dysfunction  Why breath is the unsung hero of healing and optimal sexual health  Key Takeaways:  Your body tells a story. Posture and breath reflect your stress, habits, and mindset.  Balance matters. Overtraining visible muscles while neglecting the rest (like glutes and pelvic floor) can contribute to erectile dysfunction and pain.  Small tweaks, big impact. Conscious breathing, posture correction, and gentle movement can lead to major improvements in wellbeing and sexual health.  The body remembers. Emotional trauma can live in our tissues; releasing it through bodywork can be incredibly healing.  Self-agency is powerful. When you understand your body, you reclaim the power to heal.    Expert Insights:  “You are not a sum of disconnected parts—you are one beautiful, functional whole.”  — Melissa Hadley Barrett  “The breath connects everything. Your nervous system depends on the frequency and depth of the breath.”  — Frida  About Frida & Body Nature Therapies:  Frida is a psychosomatic therapist, yoga teacher, remedial massage practitioner, and artist. She founded Body Nature Therapies in 2004 and developed the unique Body Mapping Method, a process that uses illustrated posture analysis to help people visually reconnect with their bodies.  With decades of experience and a deep passion for self-empowerment and natural healing, Frida helps clients access lasting change—physically, mentally, and emotionally.   Learn more: Instagram - @body_nature_therapies  Available for online consultations https://bodynature.org/     Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au    https://bodynature.org/  Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us:  If you’d like to share your journey, special skills or ask a question, get in touch.   Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 5min

196: Penis Enlargement, Girth Goals & Urology Innovation with Dr. Amy Pearlman

In this refreshingly honest episode, Melissa chats with the inspiring and trailblazing Dr. Amy Pearlman—a US-based female urologist, twin, and co-founder of the Prime Institute in Florida. Known for her progressive and patient-first approach, Amy opens up about her journey into men’s health, the procedures she performs (including penile girth enhancement), and the power of confidence in sexual wellbeing.  This episode dives deep into:  Why Amy chose a career in urology  How penile enhancement treatments like hyaluronic acid fillers are helping men regain confidence  The rise of penile retraction as a commonly ignored concern—and what can be done about it  Using tools like Restorex and vacuum erection devices for rehabilitation and enhancement  Why Botox for the penis (Bocox) might be the next frontier in treating ED and penile retraction  The role of filler sleeves in preserving shape post-injection  Her concierge model of care and how it allows for more personalised, holistic men’s health treatment.  Dr. Pearlman also busts myths and shares real-world insight from her clinical experience. Melissa shares a fascinating case of six men from Papua New Guinea searching for penis enlargement in Perth!  Key Topics Covered:  Penile girth enhancement with hyaluronic acid filler  Filler safety, reversibility, and realistic expectations  Why sexual confidence matters in treating premature ejaculation  Treating penile retraction and post-surgical shrinkage  Erectile dysfunction therapies: PDE5 inhibitors, daily tadalafil vs. on-demand Spontan spray  How Dr. Pearlman learned procedures after formal training—and why that matters  The difference between snake oil and real innovation in men’s health  Cosmetic urology vs. functional outcomes: bridging the gap    About Dr. Amy Pearlman:  Amy is a board-certified urologist, medical educator, and co-founder of the Prime Institute. Her career spans academic medicine, transgender surgery, male sexual health, hormone therapy, and now cosmetic urology with a focus on confidence, body image, and function. Known for her progressive mindset, Amy trains other professionals and speaks globally on men’s health and innovation in urological care.  Prime Institute: www.theprimeinstitute.com  Follow Amy on Instagram: @amypearlmanmd  Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Amy If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.  Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/    https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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May 20, 2025 • 39min

195: Pump It Up: VaxAid, Hydro Pumps & Erection Rehab with Tim from VaxAid

In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa welcomes Tim, the brand manager of VaxAid, to introduce a revolutionary vacuum erection device now launching in Australia. If you've heard Melissa talk about Bathmate, you’ll want to hear about its medical-grade cousin—VaxAid—which combines water-based technology with medically approved features, making it one of the safest and most effective penis pumps on the market. It is also the only pump that can be used in water and air.  Tim and Melissa dive into everything you need to know: how it works, why hydro pumps are different to air pumps, the benefits of VaxAid's unique erection ring system, and what makes it TGA, FDA, and ISO certified. They also explore how this device fits into broader penile rehabilitation strategies post-cancer treatment, after surgery, or for general sexual health optimisation.  Key Takeaways:  What is VaxAid, and how is it different from traditional air pumps or the original Bathmate?  Why hydraulic pressure is safer and more effective than air-based systems  The importance of nocturnal erections and penile exercise in preventing long-term ED  How VaxAid’s comfort ring system supports blood flow while allowing for sexual intercourse  Insights into post-prostatectomy rehabilitation and vacuum therapy best practices  What makes VaxAid TGA-registered, FDA-compliant, and ISO GMP-certified  How VaxAid is supporting global clinical trials in collaboration with FirmTech  Tips for pump maintenance, correct sizing, and why quality matters in men’s health devices  Featured Product: VaxAid Hydro Pump  TGA-Registered in Australia  FDA-Registered (U.S.)   ISO-Certified Good Manufacturing Practice   Clinically approved erection rings (sizes in 4mm increments)   Designed for both rehabilitation and sexual activity   Works in water (bath/shower) or air (bedroom use)  Available in multiple sizes for optimal fit and pressure control  Top Tips when using:  Keep pubic hair trimmed for optimal seal  Clean valve parts regularly to prevent water buildup  Use the handball pump for more comfortable use, especially post-surgery  Choose the right size—think Goldilocks: not too big, not too small, just right!    Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett:  Using a penile pump daily can improve blood flow and preserve erectile function  Men often lose nocturnal erections during cancer recovery—this pump helps restore them  Cheaper pumps can cause damage due to inconsistent pressure—medical-grade pumps prevent that  Listener Offer:  Get 10% off your VaxAid with the code RHC20 – available for Australian and international orders    Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.     Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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May 6, 2025 • 20min

194: Comfort Grip for Peyronie’s Disease – Inventor Richard Shares His Story

In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa chats with Richard, an entrepreneur and Peyronie’s disease patient who turned personal frustration into innovation. After struggling with pain and slippage while using the Restorex traction device for Peyronie’s treatment, Richard took matters into his own hands—literally—and developed a more comfortable alternative: the Comfort Grip.  Richard shares his journey from diagnosis to design, including his extensive research, collaboration with other Peyronie’s specialists, and the trial-and-error process of product development. His invention aims to improve comfort, reduce prep time, and enhance treatment outcomes for men using penile traction therapy.  The Comfort Grip is designed to replace the standard Restorex clamp with a soft, adjustable, non-painful grip, offering ease of use and compatibility with both circumcised and uncircumcised users. This episode is a must-listen for men with Peyronie’s disease and anyone supporting someone on their penile rehabilitation journey.  Key Takeaways:  Richard’s Peyronie’s diagnosis and personal experience with traction therapy  Why the Restorex device works well—but some people need an added fitting to enable to be more comfortable and effective  The invention of the Comfort Grip: a gentle, adjustable, and user-friendly alternative end fitting for Restorex  Product testing, manufacturing, and future commercial availability  Plans to sell via Amazon, eBay, and through Melissa Hadley Barrett’s website  Insights into the penis product invention world, marketing humour included!  Not Just Another Gadget:  Unlike traditional clamps that often cause pain, the Comfort Grip offers:  Infinite adjustment via a turnable bezel  Silicone padding for even pressure distribution  Quick and painless application—no bandages or taping required  Compatibility with foreskin (no need to retract)   Where to Get the Comfort Grip:  The Comfort Grip will be available for purchase in May via:  www.rshealth.om.au  https://www.comfortgrip.co.uk/shop/     Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.    Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Richard. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.     Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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Apr 29, 2025 • 35min

193: Richard and Pauline Story – A prostate cancer journey, 75 and back to preop function, it is possible!

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Melissa chats with Richard and Pauline, a 75-year-old couple who generously share their personal experience with prostate cancer—from diagnosis to recovery. They open up about the emotional and physical aspects of his journey, including the moment a routine PSA test led to further investigation and, eventually, robotic prostate surgery.  This conversation shines a light on topics that are often left unspoken: erectile dysfunction after surgery, managing incontinence, and maintaining penis health in the face of cancer treatment. Richard discusses the treatments he tried, including injections, penis pumps, oral medications, and a new nasal spray for ED—and what worked best for him.  They also talk about the role of partners during recovery. Richard speaks warmly about the support he received from his wife Pauline, and how her own journey with vaginal discomfort was improved with expert help from the vagina whisperer Kate.  Alongside medical insights, this episode explores the financial realities of treatment, highlights the importance of pre-surgical preparation (including pelvic floor exercises), and makes a compelling case for early PSA screening—particularly for men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.    Key Takeaways:  Why PSA testing and early detection matter  New nasal spray for Erectile Dysfunction- Spontan  How pelvic floor physiotherapy helps with recovery and incontinence  Treatment options for erectile dysfunction post-surgery  The benefits of maintaining penis health after prostate cancer  The impact of a supportive partner and professional team  Federal and State government support available for incontinence products    Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  https://spontan.hck.digital/patient-zone   https://www.pelvichug.com/ Louise Hug   For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au   Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS)- federal Australian government https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/continence-aids-payment-scheme-caps   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Richard. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.  Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/    https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA   
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Apr 15, 2025 • 19min

192: Up Your Nose and Up It Goes: Spontan Nasal Spray for Erectile Dysfunction

Today on the Penis Project Melissa chats to Professor Eric Chung who is recognised as one of Australia's leading urologists and has been invited as a speaker at many international and national meetings as well as received numerous national and international awards and research grants. In this candid and science-backed conversation, they discuss Spontan—a revolutionary nasal spray delivering the PDE5 inhibitor Vardenafil to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).  Unlike traditional oral ED medications like Viagra (Sildenafil) or Cialis (Tadalafil), Spontan uses an intranasal delivery system to provide rapid onset—within just five -fifteen minutes—making it ideal for spontaneous sexual activity. This episode dives into how Spontan works, its benefits over oral medications, who it’s most suitable for, and the research behind its success.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with ED, exploring options beyond tablets, or simply curious about advances in sexual health treatments for men.  In This Episode:   Why Spontan offers faster onset compared to oral PDE5s   Differences in side effects between nasal and oral ED medications   Ideal patient profiles and common prescribing scenarios  Clinical insights from over 300 patient prescriptions   The role of Spontan in prostate cancer rehabilitation   Tips for effective usage and what to expect with first-time use   Why proper technique reduces nasal discomfort and sneezing   The quirky catchphrase: “Up your nose and up it goes!”  Key Topics Covered:  What are PDE5 inhibitors and how do they work?  Why nasal delivery bypasses gut metabolism for improved effectiveness  Comparing Spontan with oral Viagra, Cialis and injectables  Common side effects (and how to minimise them)  Using Spontan for post-prostate cancer sexual rehabilitation  Can Spontan be used more than once a day?  Compatibility with nasal decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine)  Patient success stories and selection criteria for best results  Spontan Nasal Spray: Currently available in Australia via the Special Access Scheme. Book an appointment today at www.rshealth.com.au    Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.    Want to Share Your Story or Suggest a Topic?    We love hearing from listeners and professionals. Reach out via email at admin@melissahadleybarrett.com if you'd like to be featured or have suggestions for future episodes.    Connect With Us    Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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Apr 8, 2025 • 42min

191: Premature Ejaculation: A Real Story of Struggle, Support and Success

In this powerful and honest episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa Hadley Barrett speaks with Dave and his partner Jen about their journey dealing with premature ejaculation (PE) — a common but often misunderstood sexual health condition affecting many men and couples.  Dave opens up about his experience living with PE since adolescence, the impact it had on his confidence and relationship, and how alcohol became a coping mechanism. With courage and persistence, Dave eventually found the right healthcare support, the right SSRI medication, and a path forward that improved both his sexual function and emotional connection with his partner.  Together, Melissa, Dave and Jen dive deep into the emotional, psychological, and physical sides of premature ejaculation — offering valuable insights for men, couples, and practitioners alike.  In This Episode, We Cover:  What premature ejaculation really is – and what it isn't  The difference between primary and secondary PE  Why many men are misinformed or dismissed by health professionals  The impact of PE on relationships, communication, and self-esteem  Dave’s journey through trial-and-error with various SSRIs: Priligy (Dapoxetine), Paroxetine, Fluoxetine and Escitalopram (Lexapro)  The hidden cost of online treatment platforms – and why cheaper, more ethical options exist  How the right treatment changed everything – from sex drive to emotional closeness  Jen’s reflections as a partner and the importance of support, understanding and touch  How couples can reconnect through small changes, time together, and deeper conversations  Melissa’s recommendation: Sanctuary of Ananda for Tantra-based relationship connection workshops  Key Takeaways:    Premature ejaculation is more common than you think – and it’s treatable  Not all SSRIs are the same. Personalised treatment matters.  The emotional and relational impacts of PE are real – and deserve attention  There’s no shame in asking for help. Support is available, affordable, and effective.  Sexual health is about more than performance – it’s about connection, confidence, and communication  Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett:  “If PE is affecting your confidence, relationship or sex life – there is help. You don’t need to suffer in silence. With the right support, treatment can be simple, effective, and affordable.”  Resources & Links:  Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic  Learn more about Sanctuary of Ananda – Tantra and connection workshops for couples  Listen to Cam Fraser’s podcast on modern masculinity and sexual wellness  For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au   Listen & Subscribe  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  Have questions or want to share your story?  Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   https://melissahadleybarrett.com   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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Mar 25, 2025 • 45min

190: Overcoming Hemochromatosis and Erectile Dysfunction

In this episode of The Penis Project podcast, Melissa Hadley Barrett interviews Scott, an avid listener of the podcast and founder of the Facebook group Let's Talk All Things Men's Health. Scott shares his personal journey battling hereditary hemochromatosis, a genetic condition that leads to excessive iron accumulation in the body, and how it resulted in severe erectile dysfunction (ED) and other health complications.  Scott discusses his diagnosis journey, his search for treatment, and how his dedication to finding answers eventually led him to renowned urologist Dr. Amy Pearlman. Together, they worked on a treatment plan that included injection therapy and ultimately a penile implant to address both Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction.  Key Discussion Points:  Hemochromatosis: What it is, how it’s diagnosed, and its impact on various organs including joints and the reproductive system.  The Journey to Diagnosis: Scott’s experience with multiple blood tests, working with a haematologist, and undergoing over 65 phlebotomies to reduce iron levels.  Challenges with ED & Peyronie's Disease: The emotional and physical toll of dealing with ED and Peyronie’s disease, as well as the psychological effects on both the patient and their partner.  Finding the Right Doctor: How Scott found Dr. Amy Pearlman through social media and her practical, compassionate approach to patient education.  The Decision for a Penile Implant: Scott’s experience with various treatments and the eventual choice to proceed with a penile implant to correct both Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction.  Surgery and Recovery: What to expect from the implant surgery, recovery process, and post-operative care.  Life After Surgery: The emotional relief of restoring intimacy, how the implant works, and Scott’s advocacy through the Boston Scientific Patient Champions Program.  Important Links & Resources:  Let's Talk All Things Men's Health (Facebook Group) – A support group founded by Scott to provide a safe space for men to discuss and share their experiences with various men’s health issues.  Dr. Amy Pearlman – Renowned Urologist specializing in men’s health and sexual wellness. https://www.primeinstitute.us/ , Instagram: @amypearlmanmd   https://www.bostonscientific.com/en-US/patients-caregivers/edcure-interstitial.html     Take Control of Your Health:  If you're struggling with erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, Peyronie’s disease, prostate or bladder cancer or other men’s health issues, book a consultation with our expert team at Restorative Health Clinic via rshealth.com.au or makehardeasy.com.au.  Don't Miss An Episode:  Follow and subscribe to The Penis Project Podcast to stay updated on the latest discussions, expert advice, and real-life stories. Together, let’s break the stigma around penile health.  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light.  Connect with Us:   Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA 
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Mar 12, 2025 • 37min

189: Frank’s Journey: Prostate Cancer, Data, and Milestones

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 power of knowledge, proactive health management, and the importance of open conversations about men’s health.  Frank shares his experience from diagnosis to post-op recovery, including:  ✅ His prostate cancer diagnosis at age 72  ✅ The decision-making process between surgery and radiation  ✅ The importance of pre-op preparation, including pelvic floor exercises  ✅ His post-surgery recovery and continence journey  ✅ Erectile function rehabilitation using medication, self-stimulation, and vacuum pumps  ✅ Tracking nocturnal erections with a FirmTech Ring  ✅ His return to a fulfilling sex life and overall health improvements  Frank’s story is both informative and inspiring, shedding light on the importance of proactive healthcare, honest conversations with partners, and the role of tracking progress in recovery.  🎧 Tune in now to hear Frank’s journey and insights!  Episode Highlights:  🩺 Diagnosis & Treatment Decisions – Frank shares how his rising PSA levels led to a prostate cancer diagnosis and why he opted for surgery over radiation.  💪 Pre & Post-Surgery Rehab – The role of pelvic floor exercises, continence recovery, and adjusting to life post-prostatectomy.  📊 Tracking Progress with Data – Frank’s detailed logging of continence, erectile function, and the use of tools like the FirmTech Ring for nocturnal erection monitoring.  🔥 Erectile Recovery & Sexual Health – Frank discusses the importance of self-stimulation, medication, and devices in regaining erectile function and intimacy with his partner.  🩷 The Emotional Side of Recovery – How prostate cancer led to deeper conversations about intimacy and a renewed focus on overall health and well-being.  If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light.  Connect with Us:   Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au   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 Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA     

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