hi I was diagnosed with stage 1A grade 2-3? They are not sure exactly ?! Endometrial cancer.
On June 1 this year. I had a total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in July of this year . I have recuperated well from surgery . I’m now undergoing vaginal brachytherapy . Had my first treatment so far so good. I’m just wondering what possible side effects are.
thank you!
Welcome. Lorraine! Vaginal dryness and shrinkage are the two problems I’ve run into. When the dr clears you, you can use various moisturizers (check with the doctor for suggestions) and a vaginal dialator.
Welcome Lorraine. I was diagnosed with Endometrial cancer stage 1B grade 1. I had brachytherapy also. I experienced incontinence and slight fatigue. And as Merma said vaginal dryness and shrinkage. Treat yourself well during the time. Glad you reached out.
The first treatment is the longest one due to setup, and the next treatments will be shorter and easier. I also experienced an exacerbation of my overactive bladder, which got me really worried. However, it calmed down after a few weeks. I also took a few online pelvic floor classes, and I believe the education and exercises may have helped as well. I’m now using the dilators—multi-sizes of silicone—not the hard plastic one they gave me. We need to ensure the canal stays open enough for future pelvic exams. My doctor said once a week for 5 minutes is good enough, but I try for twice a week for 10 minutes based on what most women said their doctors advised.
Thank you very much Tinydancer1 ! Much appreciated - Info about the dilators
HI Lorraine, I was diagnosed Stage 1B Grade 1 - I had surgery in mid-July and just finished brachytherapy last week. I have to start using the vaginal dilator next week. So, I appreciate everyone's advice as well. So far, I have had no serious side effects from brachy (7Gyx3). I may have a little fatigue at night, but no GI or bladder issues. My doc also put me on an aromatase inhibitor (my tumor was highly ER+) for one year (for prevention). Good luck!
Hi
I am stage 1A grade 3 endometroid type. Mine had nearly no myymetrisl invasion but was a large 5.8 cm tumor. I'm surprised they didn't give you a definitive grade. My treatment was brachytherapy also. Have not really had any side effects. Wishing you the best!
If you experience dryness following the brachytherapy, be sure to know if you are ER positive or negative before using estradiol. Your doctor should advise you if that is even an option.
Thank you Magnificent1!
I practiced mindfulness relaxation meditation. I had no side effects. Do not let them use lidocaine or any kind of pretreatment pain killers as they constrict tissue.
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