Radiation Oncology

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Managing Side Effects in Pelvic Radiation Therapy 

What Side Effects Occur With Radiation Therapy to the Pelvis?

If you are having radiation therapy to any part of the pelvis (the area between your hips), you might have some of the digestive problems described in the abdominal radiation section. You also may have some irritation to your bladder. This can cause discomfort or frequent urination. Drinking fluids can help relieve some of your discomfort. Your doctor can prescribe some medicine to deal with these problems.

There are also certain side effects that occur only in the reproductive organs. The effects of radiation therapy on sexual and reproductive functions depend on which organs are treated. Some of the more common side effects for both men and women do not last long after treatment. Others may be long-term or permanent. Before your treatment begins, ask your doctor about possible side effects and how long they might last.

Effects on Fertility

Scientists are still studying how radiation treatment affects fertility. If you are a women in your childbearing years, you should discuss birth control measures with your doctor. It is not a good idea to become pregnant during radiation therapy. Radiation may injure the fetus. In addition, pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for a very young child can add to the physical and emotional stress of having cancer. If you are pregnant before beginning radiation therapy, special steps should be taken to protect the fetus from radiation.

Depending on the radiation dose, women having radiation therapy in the pelvic area may stop menstruating and may have other symptoms of menopause. Treatment also can result in vaginal itching, burning, and dryness. You should report these symptoms to your doctor or nurse, who can suggest treatment.

For men, radiation therapy to an area that includes the testes can reduce both the number of sperm and their effectiveness. This does not mean that conception cannot occur, however. If you're having this type of treatment, discuss your concerns and your birth control measures with your doctor. If you want to father a child and are concerned about reduced fertility, you can look into the option of banking your sperm before treatment.

Sexual Relations

During treatment to the pelvis, some women are advised not to have intercourse. Others may find that intercourse is painful. You most likely will be able to resume having sex within a few weeks after your treatment ends.

Some shrinking of vaginal tissues occurs during radiation therapy. After your radiation therapy is finished your doctor will advise you about sexual intercourse and how to use a dilator, a device that gently stretches the tissues of the vagina.

With most types of radiation therapy, neither men nor women are likely to suffer any change in their ability to enjoy sex. Both sexes, however, may notice a decrease in their level of desire. This is more likely to be due to the stress of having cancer than to the effects of radiation therapy. This effect most likely will go away when the treatment ends, so it should not become a major concern. A booklet on sexuality and cancer is available without charge from your local American Cancer Society office. There are different versions for male and female patients.