This is a dedicated thread specifically for those who have had, are having, will be having or are considering the option of external radiotherapy or internal radiotherapy (brachytherapy). The idea for the thread has been approved by the Macmillan Community Team and the aim is for it to be a safe space where members can ask questions and share concerns and experiences.
I would respectfully ask that the chat is kept on topic to things specific to radiotherapy.
My own situation is that, pre-hysterectomy I was a probable grade 1 stage 1a, and was not likely to need adjuvant therapy. But my post op histology disappointingly revealed a few unexpected cells on my cervix, so I was restaged to a 2, meaning I was offered external radiotherapy x 25, and internal radiotherapy (brachytherapy) x 2. I’ve had my planning CT and am due to start radio on 11/4. I wanted to start this thread so that others facing radio can ask questions and seek support more easily than in an ordinary thread.
So please do feel free to post and tell us about your situation, ask questions, seek support and share tips/advice etc! I will also probably use this thread to post diary updates once my treatment has started.
Well done Love to Walk. I was told that as I lived less than an hour from my hospital I could do the enema at home. So it is worth asking, however once you get used to it, it isn't too bad and becomes part of the routine. I was told to use them for the first 10 days only. Good luck with your treatment
Well my first brachytherapy appointment was this morning. There was a slight delay in being called through though after that everything proceeded smoothly.
There was no discomfort at all having the delivery device inserted. It went in smoothly. I had taken my pain medication an hour before as advised so that likely helped. My oncologist stopped by to just check everything was fine. Then they connected everything and popped on a CD. Three pop songs later and they were back and I was unhooked and got redressed.
I was quite relieved at how easy it was. I was very hungry after I returned home so treated myself to an Uber Eats from local Starbucks. Feeling a bit tired now, so just chilling out.
Hi Muse, glad it went okay! Just to say that I took no pain meds before either of mine, and I had no discomfort or pain - it just felt like a Tampax applicator gently going in. I counted my session by the songs played too - definitely just 3! Is your second one on Friday?
Yes that’s exactly what it felt like. I take pain medication for my arthritis anyway so it worked out fine. My final session is on Thursday.
That’s great, not long now then till you’re all done! No worries re the pain meds, I just didn’t want anyone else reading the thread thinking pain meds may be necessary for brachy.
And finished! My second brachytherapy appointment went smoothly and seemed to take no time at all.
I was advised again that side effects will continue, peaking 7-10 days after treatment finishes and that I will get a phone call from the radiography team in a couple of weeks to check how things are going. Of course, to call if there are concerns.
It feels strange to be finished though I certainly plan on sticking around on this forum to offer support to others during their journey.
Very well done Muse and I am so pleased for you that you’re done! I remember on my last day thinking “is that it then?” and it felt quite surreal. My mild digestive side effects gradually dissipated over the next 2-3 weeks. I tried a jacket potato a bit too soon and regretted that, but it really wasn’t long before I was fully back to all that I’d been eating pre treatment. I was so glad to be able to eat broccoli again! It was a while though before I could drink plain water and enjoy it! It will be so wonderful for you now to have your days back to do as you wish! Have a lovely weekend!
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007