Some of you may remember I came on here about a month ago getting cold feet about my planned brachytherapy .
I have just completed my 3 brachytherapy sessions and thought it might be useful to share my experience .
Session 1 lasted about 40 mins , internal examination and fitted for correct applicator size . It was quite uncomfortable where it presses on vaginal vault but doable for the 7 minutes of radiation . Afterwards it felt like I had had a smear test . In the week following had IBS like symptoms bloating, wind etc may or may not be related . Felt very tired but managed a fairly normal routine . Started to get quite sore and irritated vulval area .
Session 2 Felt quite rushed , different radiologist who didn’t hang about inserting the applicator . It was really quite painful , they checked that I was ok to continue which I did . Longest 7 minutes and glad when it was over . Afterwards bad cramping dull aching pains for about 48 hours for which I took paracetamol .
this time had a brown discharge for a couple of days . Still sore externally so used aqueous cream , told ok to use Canestan cream if itchy . Spoke to cancer nurse who asked radiotherapy to ring me but weekend and bank holiday so didn’t get a call back!!
Session 3 Very nervous at my last session today after last week , saw the senior radiologist who measured me in week one and we went through all the side effects I had been having . She was very gentle inserting the applicator and apart from slight discomfort from pressure at top of vagina it was a breeze this week . Got the delightful pink dilators and everything carefully explained
Follow up in 3 months
Managed lunch and a walk at a nearby NT property afterwards.
not too much pain now although they advised paracetamol every 4 hours for a couple of days . Bladder feels very irritated so drinking plenty and will keep an eye on that .
On reflection I’m glad I chose to have the brachytherapy despite the possible side effects as I want to give myself the best chance going forward .
I would like to thank others on the forum as it has been a lifeline over the past few months .
Now need to slowly and carefully get healthier and lose some of the weight I’ve gained after surgery and start to get some normality back in my life .
Oh and I won £200 on the premium bonds this morning so onwards and upwards .
