Brachytherapy

When I had my 2 treatments they did put my feet in stirrups. 
The doctor did a manual examination first to assess what size of applicators to use. The applicator used on me was in 2 parts so one was inserted and then the other. I found the first procedure a little painful but then I found it painful when the speculum was used when I used to get smear tests. After the applicator was inserted I just had to lie there for 6 minutes whilst the radiation was administered. There was no sensation from that at all.

It’s not the most pleasant or dignified treatment but it’s over in about 10 minutes. 

I hope everything goes quickly and well for you tomorrow xx

Thank you for taking the time reply I appreciate it. I just want to back out of it. I had my 25 sessions of Radiotherapy and because they could not find the lymph node mapping it means I need Brachytherapy now. As a precaution.

I would rather go without it 

No stirrups for me. My hospital did a planning mini CT first where they gauged the right size of applicator, and then I had my two treatments at two separate appointments. No pain, just felt like a tampon going in, and it was a breeze. I had asked for a brachy nurse to call me a few days beforehand which helped as I had a chance to ask questions. All the best! It will soon be over - for me each session lasted approx two songs! 

That sounds so easy. I pray mine will be the same x

I’ve just finished 3 sessions of Brachytherapy on 14th November and I too had got myself soooooo worked up over what ended up being nothing. Strip from waist down with hospital gown on for dignity. Lay on bench, draw ankles up to bottom and let legs relax open just like when having a smear. Lubricated applicator was inserted and then clamped to the bench so a cough wouldn’t push it back out. Take a book or your phone to pass the 6/8 minutes it takes. You don’t feel anything whilst the radiotherapy is being administered. It really is nothing, if I can do it, anyone can. All the best for tomorrow.

Popoya, I had 25 x radio and 2 x brachy and I’d prefer brachy over radio any day. 

KeswickC

Thank you, yes, that is me. Panic stations. I have allsorts of scenarios in my head. On here it seems everyone has had a different experience.

My session and CT planning is at Barts London. 

Last Radiotherapy tomorrow morning and CT planning in a different hospital for Brachytherapy in the afternoon

I’m excited for you for your last radio! Hope it goes smoothly! It sounds like your first brachy appointment may just be the mini planning CT and not a treatment as you don’t usually have radio and brachy on the same day. 

Thats right. CT Planning tomorrow.

Brachytherapy on 11th and 12th Dec

I found the brachytherapy staff very supportive and patient. It was a calm, unhurried appointment. I explained my concerns at the beginning and they took everything I said into consideration so do let them know how you're feeling. 3 sessions over 7 days and I honestly was ok with it. 

I think part of the dread is that it's often a treatment none of us have heard of unlike radio or chemo so it's rather a shock when we first hear of it.