What should you know about pelvic brachytherapy?

A specialist places an applicator or small implant in the treatment area, guided by the planned anatomy and imaging. The source may be inserted for a short session and removed afterward, or seeds may remain in place when that approach is suitable. An afterloader can move the source into the applicator and withdraw it after the prescribed delivery. The treatment plan depends on the cancer's location, size, previous treatment and overall health.

Pelvic brachytherapy can be used for cancers of the cervix, womb, vagina or prostate. Some people receive it alongside external-beam radiation, surgery or medicines. The team explains whether the source remains after treatment and what precautions apply.

Tell the team about pregnancy possibility, medicines, allergies, bowel or bladder symptoms and prior pelvic procedures. Follow instructions about fasting, bowel preparation and arriving with an empty bladder when requested. Arrange transport if sedation or anaesthesia is planned. After treatment, expect guidance about rest, sexual activity, hygiene, vaginal or urinary care and follow-up appointments.

Call promptly for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, inability to pass urine, persistent vomiting or new bowel symptoms. Seek emergency care for severe pain, fainting, breathing difficulty or sudden heavy bleeding. Use the radiation-safety instructions given by your team, especially if an implant remains temporarily or after treatment.

Ask why brachytherapy is recommended, which applicator or implant will be used, whether anaesthesia is needed, how many visits are planned, what side effects may appear, whether the source remains in place, and when normal activities can resume.