Many people experience changes to their physical health during or after pelvic radiotherapy. Some side effects improve within a few weeks or months, while others can develop months or years after treatment.
Common symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy
Pelvic radiotherapy can affect different organs and tissues within the treatment area. Everyone’s experience is different, and you may have one symptom, several symptoms, or none at all.
Bladder symptoms
Changes in bladder function can occur following pelvic radiotherapy. Information on this page can help you understand symptoms such as urinary urgency, frequency, leakage and blood in the urine, together with advice on managing them.
Radiotherapy can affect the bladder and urinary system, leading to:
- Needing to pass urine more frequently
- Urgency to reach the toilet
- Getting up during the night to pass urine
- Urinary leakage or incontinence
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Burning, discomfort, or pain when passing urine
- Blood in the urine
If you notice new bleeding or sudden worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare team.
These resources provide information on how to manage some of the late effects of radiotherapy on the bladder.
Useful links
Bowel symptoms
Bowel symptoms can have a significant impact on confidence, social activities and quality of life. These resources offer information and practical advice on managing diarrhoea, urgency, constipation, incontinence and other bowel-related concerns.
Changes to your bowel habit are common and may include:
- Increased frequency of bowel motions
- Urgency or difficulty delaying opening your bowels
- Loose stools or diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Excess wind or bloating
- Leakage or faecal incontinence
- Rectal bleeding
- Pain or discomfort when opening your bowels
These symptoms can sometimes affect confidence, daily activities, work, travel, and social situations.
These resources provide information on how to manage some of the late effects of radiotherapy on the Bowel.
Bone health
Maintaining healthy bones is important after cancer treatment, particularly for those at increased risk of osteoporosis.
Pelvic radiotherapy may increase the risk of:
- Joint stiffness
- Reduced mobility
- Pelvic insufficiency fractures
- Bone weakness
Remaining active and reporting new pain promptly can help protect bone health and maintain physical function.
These resources provide information on bone health, diet, exercise and ways to reduce the risk of fractures.
Lymphoedema
Cancer treatment can sometimes affect the lymphatic system leading to Lymphoedema which is swelling caused by a build-up of fluid in the body’s tissues.
Symptoms may include:
- Swelling of the legs, feet, genital area, or lower abdomen
- Feelings of heaviness or tightness
- Reduced mobility
- Skin changes
Early assessment and treatment can help prevent symptoms getting worse.
The resources below provide guidance on recognising symptoms, managing swelling and accessing specialist support.
Lymphoedema Support Network
Advice, education and support for people living with lymphoedema.
Physical Activity and Rehabilitation
Being physically active can help improve physical function, reduce fatigue and support emotional wellbeing. These resources provide guidance on incorporating activity into everyday life at a pace that works for you.
Moving Medicine
Moving Medicine offers resources to help people safely increase physical activity during and after cancer treatment.
Fatigue
Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common and distressing long-term effects of treatment. It can feel overwhelming and may not improve with rest alone.
Fatigue may affect:
- Everyday activities
- Work and hobbies
- Concentration and memory
- Motivation and mood
Regular physical activity, good sleep habits, healthy nutrition, and symptom management can all help reduce fatigue.
These resources offer practical strategies to help you manage your energy levels, pace activities and improve day-to-day wellbeing.
Nutrition
Good nutrition plays an important role in health, recovery and wellbeing. These resources provide practical advice on maintaining a balanced diet and supporting your health after cancer treatment.
Sleep
Many people experience changes in their sleep following cancer treatment. Improving sleep can have a positive impact on fatigue, mood and overall wellbeing. These resources offer practical tips to support healthy sleep habits.