Gynecologic Cancer Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is an important part of treatment for several gynecologic cancers. It may be used to cure cancer, reduce the risk of recurrence, or relieve symptoms.
Modern techniques such as IMRT, VMAT, IGRT and brachytherapy allow precise treatment while protecting nearby organs such as the bladder and bowel.
Which Gynecologic Cancers Can Be Treated With Radiation?
Radiation therapy may be used for:
- Cervical cancer
- Endometrial (uterine) cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Selected recurrent or metastatic gynecologic cancers
When Is Radiation Therapy Used?
Radiation may be recommended:
- As the main treatment for cervical cancer
- Along with chemotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer
- After surgery when there is a risk of recurrence
- For selected early-stage cancers
- For recurrent disease
- To relieve symptoms such as pain or bleeding in advanced cancer
The treatment depends on the type, stage and pathology of the cancer.
What Is Brachytherapy?
Brachytherapy is an important part of treatment for many cervical cancers.
Instead of delivering radiation from outside the body, a radioactive source is temporarily placed close to or inside the tumor.
It allows a high dose of radiation to the cancer while limiting radiation to nearby organs such as the bladder and rectum.
For cervical cancer, brachytherapy is often combined with external-beam radiation and chemotherapy when appropriate.
What Is External Beam Radiation Therapy?
External radiation is delivered using advanced techniques such as IMRT, VMAT and IGRT.
These techniques help target the tumor and involved lymph nodes while reducing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of treatments depends on the cancer type and treatment approach.
- External-beam radiation: Usually given over several weeks
- Chemoradiation: Radiation is commonly combined with chemotherapy in selected cervical cancers
- Brachytherapy: Usually requires a few treatment sessions
Your treatment schedule will be individualized according to your diagnosis and overall health.
What Are the Possible Side Effects?
Side effects vary depending on the area treated and may include:
- Tiredness
- Loose stools or diarrhea
- Increased urinary frequency or burning
- Abdominal or pelvic discomfort
- Nausea
- Skin irritation
- Vaginal dryness or irritation
Most acute side effects improve after treatment.
Is Gynecologic Radiation Painful?
No. External-beam radiation itself is painless.
Brachytherapy is performed as a procedure, and appropriate anesthesia or pain control is provided when required.
You are not radioactive after external-beam radiation therapy.
Can Gynecologic Cancer Be Cured With Radiation?
Yes. Radiation therapy can be curative for many women, particularly when used appropriately for cervical and other localized or locally advanced gynecologic cancers.
The best treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, pathology, imaging findings and overall health.
Why Choose Modern Radiation Therapy?
Gynecologic cancers are located close to important organs such as the bladder, rectum and bowel.
Modern techniques such as IMRT, VMAT, IGRT and brachytherapy allow accurate treatment of the cancer while helping to reduce radiation exposure to surrounding organs.
Book a Consultation
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with gynecologic cancer, a radiation oncology consultation can help determine whether radiation therapy is appropriate and which treatment approach is best for you.
