Radiation Therapy for Gynecologic Cancers

Potential Side Effects

The side effects you may experience will depend on the area being treated and the type of radiation used. Before treatment, ask your doctor to describe what you can expect.

• Some patients experience minor or no side effects and can continue their normal routines.
• Some women may notice nausea, fatigue, skin irritation, vaginal irritation and discharge, frequent urination, burning with urination and diarrhea. These will usually resolve after treatment ends.
• Some weeks after treatment, you may see minor changes to your bowel, bladder or vagina. Radiation may cause the vagina to be drier and less flexible. Ask your doctor or nurse how to manage these changes as medications, vaginal dialators and moisturizers may help.
• Don't be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about sexual side effects. Although side effects can sometimes decrease interest in sexual activity, most women are eventually able to resume sexual relations.
• Radiation to your pelvic area may affect your ability to have children. Your doctor will have recommendations on fertility preservation options if you are interested. The group Fertile Hope also has information.
• You may have additional side effects if you are receiving chemotherapy at the same time as radiation therapy. If at any time you develop side effects, tell your doctor or nurse. He or she can give you medicine to help.