Radiation therapy for ovarian cancer

Radiation treatment uses high energy x-rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. The radiation may come from outside the body or from radioactive materials placed into or near the tumor. Radiation is only rarely used in this country as the main treatment for ovarian cancer.

Radiation treatment can cause side effects. The skin in the area treated may look and feel sunburned. The skin returns to normal within 6 to 12 months. Many women also feel tiredness, nausea, or diarrhea. Be sure to ask the doctor about any side effects you might have. Often there are ways to help.

More information on radiation therapy can be found in the radiation section of our Web site, or in our document Understanding Radiation Therapy: A Guide for Patients and Families.