I had PDR brachytherapy in late December 2022 after my hysterectomy in early October. The first few months after the treatment I felt a little tired and slightly sore but otherwise not too bad. In April I started having a burning sensation when I passed urine, a constant feeling that I needed to do so and a burning sensation just above the pubic bone area. I went to my GP's and the ANP gave me antibiotics as there was an infection in my urine sample. I felt much better for a couple of weeks but then the symptoms returned albeit not quite as severe as the earlier episode. The ANP tested my urine, and sent it off to Pathology but there was no infection. I know brachytherapy can cause bladder/ urinary issues but thought these would have happened early on rather than 3 months after the treatment. I've e mailed my CNS for advice as I still feel uncomfortable but wondered if anyone had experienced similar issues.
Muse, I have to say that for me I much prefer using a vibrator, as it’s silicone and not hard rigid plastic, which I find much more comfortable, I’d never used one before, and I was a bit embarrassed even to just look on line, but I found a discreet beauty site which listed them as a wellness product and I ordered from there - it arrived in plain brown packaging with no clue on the outside what it was.
Yes Muse, that's what I mean about the natural way, Of course I wrote this because I'm lucky to still have an active hubby and appreciate that it's not the same for all. I'm sorry if I sounded insensitive and definitely didn't intend it this way. I still occasionally use dilators too.
Take care xx
Hi can you let me know the name of the beauty site as the time is approaching to start using a dialotor for me.
Hi Muse, it’s called Look Fantastic.
https://www.lookfantastic.com/
There’s a drop down menu top left hand corner. Select Body, then Wellness, then Sexual Wellness. You can then select and browse vibrators, lubricants etc (I chose water based and unscentec). I wasn’t keen on some of the lurid colours, and some of the shapes seemed bizarre, but each to their own! Some of the reviews are quite amusing! I chose a silicon USB rechargeable one that was described as smooth and slim, and is a pastel colour. It can be used with or without vibration. Have fun!
Oh you are right about the odd shapes of some. What did you think of the Divine Dialators set? I can’t seem to copy the link. 5 pieces of different sizes. I have been offered a 20% first order discount.
Hi Muse, they look okay - silicone, which is great and also slightly shaped/tapered, which should make insertion easier. I love the handle so it doesn’t get lost! Hahaha. If you just want a dilator and not a vibrator, ie just dilation not stimulation, they should do the trick - and definitely look better than the rigid plastic NHS ones.
Their prices are reasonable so may get a simple vibrator and the dilator set.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2026 © 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