If you receive radiation therapy to any part of the pelvis, you might have one or more of the digestive problems already described. You also may have some irritation of your bladder, causing discomfort or frequent urination.
Effects on Female Fertility: It is not a good idea to become pregnant during radiation therapy because radiation may harm the fetus. Women should discuss with their doctor their birth control options and how radiation may affect their fertility. If you are pregnant, let your physician know before beginning treatment.
Depending on the radiation dose, women having radiation therapy in the pelvic area may stop menstruating and have other symptoms of menopause. Treatment also can result in vaginal itching, burning, and dryness. Report these symptoms to your doctor so you can learn about options for relieving these side effects.
Effects on Male Fertility: For men, radiation therapy to an area that includes the testes can reduce both the number of sperm and their effectiveness. This does not mean that conception cannot occur, however. If you want to father a child and are concerned about reduced fertility, you can bank your sperm before treatment.
Sexual Relations: With most types of radiation therapy, neither men nor women are likely to suffer any change in their ability to enjoy sex. Both sexes, however, may notice a decrease in their level of desire.
During treatment to the pelvis, some women are advised not to have intercourse, while others may find it painful. You most likely will be able to resume having sex within a few weeks after your treatment ends. Radiation may affect a man's ability to have an erection (impotence). If a man is receiving seed implant radiation therapy (brachytherapy), he should check with his doctor about safety precautions, such as using condoms. Talk with your doctor about treatment options if this is a concern for you. For more information, please see Sexuality for Women and Their Partners and Sexuality for Men and Their Partners.
Will Side Effects Limit My Activity?
They might. However, what you can do will depend on how you feel. Some patients are able to go to work or enjoy leisure activities while they receive radiation therapy. Others find they need more rest than usual and therefore cannot do as much. Your doctor may suggest you limit activities that might irritate the area being treated.
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