How side effects of pelvic radiotherapy may affect your feelings

Fear of the cancer coming back Back to top

For many people, the hardest part of finishing treatment is coping with the fear of the cancer coming back and uncertainty about the future. During treatment you may feel that something is being 'done' about the cancer. It is also often a very busy time. All your concentration and energy every day may be focused on coping with various appointments, treatments and side effects.

When treatment ends, it is natural to feel insecure and anxious. You will have more time to think about the possibility of the cancer coming back. It may feel as though there is nothing now 'fighting' your cancer. You may find it very difficult to cope with anxiety about symptoms. Many people worry that every ache or pain they have is a sign that the cancer has come back or is growing. If a symptom does continue and you are worried, talk to your doctor or nursing team.

Emotions Back to top

You may have a range of feelings if you develop side effects or symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy, especially if they develop many months or years later. They may include:

• anger
• embarrassment
• resentment
• anxiety
• fear
• sadness.

It is natural to have these emotions| and for your emotions to change quickly. These are all normal reactions and part of the process that many women go through. Everyone has their own way of coping. Some women find it helpful to talk things over with other women who have been through similar experiences. Some people prefer to keep their feelings to themselves. There is no right or wrong way to cope, but help is there if you need it.

If the side effects are affecting your life so that you can’t do so much round the house, or have to reduce your hours or give up work, you may feel as though you are letting people down. It can be helpful to talk about these feelings with someone.

Often it is easier to talk to someone who is not directly involved with your illness. You can ask your hospital consultant or GP to refer you to a doctor or counsellor who specialises in helping people deal with the emotional problems of people with cancer and their relatives. You can also contact the Cancer Counselling Trust|. Cancerbackup can give you information on how to find a counsellor in your area.