Side Effects and Management
Complications of radiation therapy to the abdominal and pelvic areas may include:
• Anal and/or rectal irritation causing:
• Blood in the stool
• Pain during bowel movements
• Stool leakage
• Bladder irritation causing:
• Pain or burning during urination
• Blood in the urine
• Men having difficulty getting and maintaining an erection
• Women experiencing vaginal dryness, causing discomfort during intercourse
• Infertility—talk to your doctor about options to preserve fertility before starting treatment