Brachytherapy Treatments, two down, one to go!

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Morning All

I got so many nice messages after my first detailed report, thought I'd do the same again. As I've said, I'm a firm believer in trying to dispel the horror of the unknown which is the journey we're all making together. If it reduces the fear in any way for someone, then that's great.

Anyway, arrived a little early for my session expecting a wait but they called me in almost immediately. Asked how I'd suffered any side effects? None of any consequence, no problems with passing urine, slightly looser no. 2's but not problematic. Changed into gown and went into treatment room - this time just nurses present plus an observer Gynae sister.

This time the insertion of the tube was much easier as it was the correct size for me. Supports put behind knees, they left the room. A klaxon sounded and the machine whirred into life. Then just the odd click, then whirring again. The nurse came in, removed the tube and it was all over. 

You do have these odd thoughts - I wondered, if a fire alarm sounded would they just leave me here attached by a tube to the table? Then - I can't feel anything, does this mean it's really working? I discussed this with the nurses and they reassured me on both counts - No and Yes!

After changing, they came in with my early Christmas pressie - my dilator pack (which comes in its own travel pouch) A bit like a russian doll, they are comprised of 4 parts which screw into 2 "wands". I was relieved to hear I'd use the smallest first. (The largest looked huge). They also give you lubricating gel to help you on your way haha. Apparently after brachytherapy the vagina can reduce in size ( I won't say shrivel up - that sounds horrible!) so dilators are used to enable future examinations to be done. You should use 3/4 times a week for 10 minutes at at time. I'll let you all into a secret - I've purchased my first rabbit vibrator - might as well have a bit of fun. Growing old disgracefully!

It's my last session tomorrow, I won't say it's something I'll look forward to but I'll be glad to get it over with.

Lov'n'hugs to you all Barb xx

  • Thanks for update Barb xx

    I look forward to my Christmas pressie too when my turn comes. We already have a bright pink vibrator so it sounds like it might get pressed into service in future too :-) Given my current constipation/wind situation, looser no.2s have a certain appeal but I hope the side effects remain minor for you as treatment progresses.

    Thinking of you on Thursday.
    Take care, Dx

  • Well Barb and I are racing to the finish as I had my second brachytherapy session last Friday and I have my last one this Friday. I'm feeling put out now, as I haven't been given my dilators pack!! It's interesting how treatments  work out. My second session was very like Barb's, but my radiologist did the tube insertion. There was a nurse present too. It kind of feels a bit lonely when they leave the room and it's just you and the radiation! I tend to let my mind drift and then suddenly there are voices and they are back in the room and it's all over.

    My first session was completely different tho as it was a two hour appointment. My oncologist was there as well as the radiographer. They put a catheter in first, because of the length of time I suppose. I've never had one put in when I've been conscious before. It did pinch a little but as soon as I relaxed it was OK. Then they chose the application tube and put that in. Then I was sent for a ct scan - I haven't had any scans up till now apart from the transvaginal ultrasound scan at the beginning. It was quite a performance as they transferred me from the bed onto the scanner trolley using a slide sheet - trying to keep all my tubes in the right place! After that it was into the radiation room for five minutes of treatment. 

    The procedure doesn't hurt, but it's not very dignified. But I must say the wonderful NHS staff try to make you feel as relaxed as you can be in the circumstances. So I too will be glad to have finished my treatment, and feel very grateful that I have had it before the lockdown. I had been looking forward to a celebratory meal out, well that's not going to happen now until December. But I guess I can play with my dilators in the meantime!

  • Thats the spirit !

    i am glad to hear that your two down one to go. Maybe they will surprise you with dilators! I’ve had a catheter in when i was conscious before but to be totally honest i was pretty much out of it and very poorly at the time, it was when I had sepsis, Mum said how wonderful all the nurses and Doctors were in treating me, I cannot actually remember myself it’s seems my mind has completely blocked it, They do an incredible and at times very difficult job. I think at the moment it must of been a year many really wish hadn’t happened and lots of them before deploying in different areas as well as departments but they have risen to the challenge and I am very happy to hear about everyone getting excellent treatment during these difficult and very different times. 

    Wishing you well for your last treatment on Friday and Barb tomorrow.

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  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi Barb, Glad to hear Tuesday went well and they gave you a wee present so you won’t forget them.Smiley  Hope I’m not too late to wish you well for your final session. I meant to pop in yesterday but forgot, then overslept this morning. Pity your final session is just before lockdown, curbing your celebration plans, but hey no more hospital visits this year has got to feel good. Have a safe journey to and from your appointment and hope it all goes well.

    Take Care

    AngieRaising hand tone1

  • Had my second session yesterday which was very similar to Barb's great description. Slightly loose bowels this morning but otherwise no side effects so far. Final session on Friday - will look out for my Christmas present of dilators. 

    Take care everyone,

    Dx