Does radiotherapy treat womb cancer?

Womb cancer often refers to cancer of the endometrium, the lining of the womb. Radiotherapy may be given inside the vagina using a small applicator, from outside the body to the pelvis, or as a combination. The choice depends on the tumour type, grade, depth of growth, surgical findings and whether lymph nodes or nearby tissues are involved.

After surgery, radiation may target cells that cannot be seen on scans. In other situations it may shrink or control a tumour causing bleeding or pelvic symptoms. External treatment can cause tiredness, bowel or bladder changes and skin irritation; internal treatment can cause local discomfort or discharge. Your team will explain what applies to your plan.

Ask your gynaecological oncology team to review the operation and pathology findings with you. Confirm whether the proposed treatment is internal, external or both, how the appointments are arranged, and what preparation is needed. Tell the team about bowel, bladder or vaginal symptoms before treatment starts. Keep a simple record of bleeding, pain and changes in urination or bowel movements.

Contact your care team for heavy or persistent vaginal bleeding, fever, new severe pelvic pain, inability to pass urine, or diarrhoea that is difficult to control. New leg swelling, chest pain or sudden breathlessness needs urgent medical attention. Symptoms after treatment can have causes other than cancer, so an assessment is safer than trying to interpret them alone.

What features of my womb cancer make radiotherapy suitable? Which organs will be in the treatment area? How should I prepare for internal or external treatment, and which changes need an urgent call?