Hello, I am on my 10th session of Radiotherapy for anal cancer. I have been given Flamigel for the pain in the anus area but it makes my vagina area sting. Is there anything else I can try that will not agitate my vagina. Would pure Aloe vera gel be good for anus and vagina, thank you.
Hi Woo2024
Thanks for getting in touch.
My name is Gemma, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line.
I am glad you have got in touch regarding the side effects of your radiotherapy.
Pelvic radiotherapy can cause a skin reaction in the area being treated. This can be uncomfortable, particularly in sensitive areas.
Please let your clinical team/radiographers know that Flamigel is stinging, they will advise you to use other creams and medications that can ease the discomfort you are feeling.
Complementary therapies such as Aloe Vera gel, cover a wide range of practices that can be used alongside or in addition to conventional treatments.
Before using any, we always recommend that you discuss it with your hospital team to enable them to talk about any potential harmful effects, especially during treatment.
Some creams and lotions may interact with radiotherapy and could cause further damage.
Our Online Community Forum can be helpful to talk to others who have been through your situation and have shared experiences.
Please consider giving us a call – we are so much better at providing information and support in sensitive situations such as these when we can talk together. Our contact details are at the bottom of my response. I think we can be so much more helpful to you by telephone.
Take Care
Gemma. Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref: GES/HeP
