What is tandem and ovoid brachytherapy?

A slim tandem sits inside the uterus while two ovoids rest beside the cervix. Together, they create a channel for a radioactive source to reach the treatment area. The source is commonly moved in and out by a remote afterloader, so it is not left in the body between sessions.

This technique is used most often for cervical cancer and may be considered for selected womb or vaginal cancers. Planning images help the team position the applicator and shape the radiation dose around nearby organs. Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiotherapy; see [Brachytherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/brachytherapy/) and [Brachytherapy Afterloader](/technology/brachytherapy-afterloader/).

Your team will explain fasting, medicines, anaesthesia, bladder preparation, and whether you need someone to take you home. During placement, you may have pressure or cramping. Afterward, mild pelvic soreness, tiredness, urinary discomfort, or bowel changes can occur; report symptoms so they can be treated.

Follow instructions about activity, bathing, and vaginal intercourse while the area heals. Ask how many visits are planned, how long each visit may take, and whether the applicator stays in place between imaging and treatment. Some people also need external radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

Contact the treatment team for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, inability to pass urine, or persistent vomiting. Seek urgent help for severe bleeding, fainting, chest pain, or sudden breathlessness.

Ask which organs the applicators will treat, what anaesthesia is planned, how discomfort will be controlled, and which symptoms are expected afterward. Ask whether your diagnosis, such as [Cervical Cancer](/conditions/cervical-cancer/) or [Vaginal Cancer](/conditions/vaginal-cancer/), changes the schedule.