Side effects of Brachytherapy or recurrance?

Hi Willow,

I think because you can't normally see the effects of radiotherapy or brachytherapy people think they should be over it when it finishes.

14 years ago my husband had radiotherapy to his neck after throat cancer. A year later he had to have his larynx removed because the radiotherapy had damaged it. He was cut nearly from ear to ear, but because of the radiotherapy he'd had previously it took a good 2 years for the neck to heal up properly. He was told he had poor healing due to the radiotherapy. So, you don't surprise me at all. As long as they are happy, I'd try to forget it. And it does take time to get your confidence back. xxxx 

Hi NannyAnny

Thanks so much for taking the time to reply. I do hope your husband is now in better health.

You are quite right, I did think radiation was going to be an easy ride. The unfortunate thing about these side effects is that they are similar to the onset of the original cancer. I agree -- I need to trust what I am hearing from my medical practitioners. Fear really does mess with your mind doesn't it?

Thank you,

Chris 

Hi Willow32 and a very warm welcome to our little corner of the Online Community to the Womb cancer group. Here you will find a lovely group of supportive members who’ve all made the same rollercoaster ride so it’s good to hear that your operation has taken place and you're also post brachytherapy treatment.

A cancer diagnosis will bring many questions, lots of confusion and stress but I found being able to talk with other people who are on the same type of journey helped me a lot. The ladies in this group are all hugely supportive so ask away, we’ll be able to answer most questions.

Once I started to use the dilators (Horrible things - buzzy toys more fun - yes, at the age of 67 discovered fun!!) I had a little light spotting but my CNS reassured me it was fine but she'd arrange for me to come in if worried. That is all a distant memory (5 months ago). I've just had my second 3 month check-up and I'm fine. I did mention to my Oncologist that I'd noticed the odd smear but he did reassure me to say it'd only cause him concern if it was more prolonged and heavier. I have had the odd bout of diarrhoea as well but he said to use Imodium if it was a problem.

When you have a minute, it would be helpful if you could pop something about your  journey so far into your profile as it really helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. (It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself.) To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can update it at any time and if you're not sure what you should write have a quick look at mine by clicking on my username..

Sending you welcoming hugs, B xx 

Thank you Mrs BJH. Our stories are very similar indeed and you have made me feel less anxious. I had been struggling to find anyone with this type to compare notes with. I really appreciate the time you have taken to help me. X

The dilator thing is a nightmare. I've tried to make jokes about it (like I did with the hair-loss) but inside my head I find it horrible. However at 66 yrs old, maybe I will explore the idea of the buzzy-things (that did make me smile).

I will update my profile in a little while. I'm just going to have a coffee and think on what you have said.

Many thanks,

Chris

Hi Chris

Never too old to try new things. I only ever achieved dilator no. 3 and hated it, even the colour seems wrong! With my hubby waiting for a hip op sex is (and has been) a distant memory but my Oncologist and CNS at my consultation on Tuesday stressed we must keep the vagina supple else future examinations will be difficult as well as painful.

So buzzy toys for the next 3-5 years Yay!!

Barb xx

You have made me giggle !  I too can't remember what sex was like, though I am very happily married. I thought it was just me lol! 

Buzz, buzz

Chris x