Pelvic Radiotherapy
Treatment for tumors in the pelvic area, with bladder and bowel preparation that improves accuracy and reduces side effects.
Under physician review
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.
Preparing for CT simulation
- You are usually asked for a full bladder (by drinking a set amount of water) to push part of the bowel out of the treatment area.
- Emptying the bowel and avoiding bloating is preferred; a simple diet may be advised to reduce gas.
- Lying on the front (prone) with a special board may be used in some cases to move the bowel away.
Positioning & immobilization
- You lie in a stable position (on the back or front per the plan) with leg immobilization.
- Repeating the same bladder and bowel instructions daily ensures treatment accuracy.
- The machine takes verification images before each session.
How your treatment is planned
- Your doctor outlines the tumor and nodes, and marks the bladder, bowel, rectum, and hip bones to protect them.
- The plan is designed to cover the disease while reducing what reaches the bowel and bladder as much as possible.
- Internal radiotherapy (brachytherapy) may be added in some pelvic tumors to raise the dose precisely.
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.
Possible late side effects
- Mild chronic bowel changes (urgency or minor rectal bleeding) in some patients.
- Chronic urinary changes or reduced bladder capacity.
- Effects on fertility and sexual function — discuss fertility preservation before treatment if it matters to you.
- In women: vaginal narrowing or dryness may occur; recommended exercises and moisturizers help.
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.
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.
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?
Important notice
This platform is for explanation and education only and does not replace medical advice. Your treating physician is the final source of truth for your condition and treatment plan. Do not make any treatment decision based on this content alone.