After a woman has been diagnosed with cervical cancer and the cancer has been staged, the physicians will determine the best treatment for the patient. Radiation therapy is an important part of the therapy for cervical cancer; it may be given to shrink a tumor or be administered in conjunction with chemotherapy. Radiation therapy for cervical cancer may carry some long-term after-effects.
Vaginal Changes
One after-effect of radiation therapy for cervical cancer is changes in the vagina, according to the website Cancer Compass. The vagina may become narrower in diameter and become shorter; intercourse may be uncomfortable or painful. Regular intercourse or specially designed vaginal dilators may help with this problem.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Women who undergo radiation therapy for cervical cancer may have gastrointestinal problems even after the radiation therapy. According to the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation, women may experience diarrhea or radiation colitis after radiation for cervical cancer.
Urinary Problems
Some women develop urinary problems after radiation for cervical cancer. Urination becomes more frequent and uncomfortable for these patients, according to the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation. This symptom typically begins during the therapy but can persist for a time after therapy is completed.
Early Menopause
Radiation to the pelvic region may cause early menopause by affecting the ovaries, as noted by the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation. Women who develop ovarian failure may become infertile; it is important for women who may want to have children to discuss this potential issue before the radiation therapy so that steps to manage this outcome can be started, according to the American Society for Radiation Oncology. Women who enter early menopause also may have decreased vaginal lubrication which can also contribute to difficulty or pain during intercourse.
References
- American Society of Clinical Oncology: Cervical Cancer
- University of Florida Shands Cancer Center: Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
- Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania: Side Effects of Radiation for Cervical Cancer
- Gynecologic Cancer Foundation: Understanding Cervical Cancer
- American Society for Radiation Oncology: Radiation Therapy for Gynecologic Cancers
