Patient handout: Pelvic Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy Step by Step — Designed for radiation oncologists to use in clinic
Treatment for tumors in the pelvic area, with bladder and bowel preparation that improves accuracy and reduces side effects.
Why radiotherapy is used
- Radiotherapy is used for various pelvic tumors (such as rectum, cervix and uterus, bladder, and anal canal).
- It may be curative, complementary before/after surgery, or combined with chemotherapy depending on the tumor type.
- Your doctor decides the plan best suited to your specific case.
The area being treated
- The tumor site in the pelvis with a safety margin.
- The at-risk pelvic lymph nodes are often treated.
- The bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs lie near the treatment area, so planning focuses on protecting them.
How to prepare
- Follow the instructions for a full bladder and empty bowel before each session.
- Follow the recommended diet to reduce gas and diarrhea, and report any disturbance to the team.
- Keep the perineal area clean and gently cared for, and use only the recommended ointments.
- For women: ask about vaginal moisturizers and dilators to prevent narrowing.
Early (acute) side effects
- Bowel changes: looser stools, urgency, cramps, or more frequent bowel motions.
- Urinary symptoms: frequency, urgency, or burning when passing urine.
- Building fatigue.
- Skin irritation in the perineal and buttock area.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What preparation is required of me before each session?
- Will I need chemotherapy or internal treatment (brachytherapy)?
- What is the expected long-term effect on my bowel and bladder?
- What is the effect on fertility and sexual function?
- What preventive measures are available to me?
When to contact us immediately
- Severe diarrhea or vomiting preventing you from drinking fluids (dehydration risk)
- Fever with urinary or bowel symptoms
- Heavy or ongoing bleeding from the rectum or bladder
- Being unable to pass urine at all
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that does not settle
If any of these appear, contact your treatment team immediately or go to the emergency department.