Radiotherapy for ovarian cancer: what to know

Ovarian cancer care often involves surgery and medicines, but radiotherapy may be considered for a particular area or symptom. The decision depends on the cancer type, its location, previous treatments, scan findings and your overall health. Planning imaging maps the pelvis and nearby bowel, bladder and reproductive organs so the treatment field can be tailored.

Pelvic treatment may irritate the bowel or bladder. You might notice looser stools, cramping, urinary frequency or burning, tiredness, or skin sensitivity. Symptoms can develop during treatment and may settle gradually afterwards. Your team can offer medicines, diet guidance and other supportive care rather than expecting you to manage changes alone.

Tell your team about bowel or bladder problems, previous operations, medicines and any possibility of pregnancy. Ask how to prepare for each session and whether the bladder should be full or empty. Keep a symptom diary and follow advice about fluids, food and skin care. Scans such as pelvic ultrasound, tumour profiling and genetic testing may help describe the cancer, while debulking surgery, chemotherapy or palliative care may be discussed alongside radiotherapy.

Contact your treatment team promptly for persistent vomiting, frequent watery stools, inability to pass urine, increasing pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fever or a sudden decline in your condition. Seek urgent help for collapse, severe weakness, confusion or breathing difficulty. Report symptoms early because dehydration, infection, bleeding or bowel and bladder irritation may need specific treatment.

What area is being treated, and what is the goal? How will radiotherapy fit with surgery or chemotherapy? Which bowel, bladder or skin changes should I report immediately? What preparation is needed before each session? Who should I contact outside clinic hours?