Is someone you love – or are you yourself – recovering from pelvic radiotherapy?
With Stand Up to Cancer Day this month, it’s a good time to talk about what recovery can really involve. While radiotherapy is a powerful treatment for pelvic cancers, it can also cause unexpected side effects and scarring – especially in sensitive areas like the vagina.
The good news is there are gentle, effective ways to reduce the risk of symptoms and help you feel more like yourself again – let’s take a closer look.1
Understanding scar tissue
Scar tissue is different from normal tissue – it tends to be stiffer and less stretchy. It is a crucial part of the body’s natural healing response, but it can limit mobility and cause discomfort.2 Techniques like scar massage – using circular, linear and cross-friction motions – can improve your circulation, reduce inflammation and promote regeneration.3
Vaginal dilation therapy
Scar tissue from radiotherapy can cause a narrowing of the vaginal canal, known as vaginal stenosis, which may lead to discomfort, dryness, or pain during or after sex. Dilation involves using a specially designed device called a vaginal dilator to gently stretch and maintain the flexibility of vaginal tissues. The goal is to improve comfort, restore elasticity, and make intimacy or medical examinations feel more manageable. A 2024 study found that vaginal dilation therapy significantly improved vaginal length, diameter and sexual function in cervical cancer survivors – highlighting its value as a proactive part of recovery.4
Talk to your nurse
Your gynae-oncology specialist may introduce dilation into your recovery plan 2 to 8 weeks after radiotherapy, once inflammation has settled.
How to begin
Try a few minutes, a couple of times a week, but if you feel as if you need to take it more slowly, it’s important to go at a pace that’s comfortable for you.
Choosing a dilator
Start with the smallest size and move up as you feel more comfortable – your care team can guide you through the best options. The Amielle® Care vaginal dilator set is designed specifically for pelvic radiotherapy recovery. Developed in collaboration with the UK National Forum of Gynaecological Oncology Nurses, it empowers you to take control of your healing with:
Used consistently, Amielle® Care is designed to help reduce the potential of scarring developing, making future examinations and intimacy more comfortable.
What to expect
A little spotting after use is normal, but if you experience new pain or heavier bleeding, it’s important to speak to your clinician.
Check in regularly
Over time, your need for dilation may change – especially if you are sexually active or no longer experiencing discomfort. Your care team will review this with you regularly to make sure the approach continues to suit your needs.5
Confidence in recovery
Recovery after pelvic radiotherapy can bring unexpected challenges, but with the right support, you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you're navigating changes in your body or seeking ways to feel more like yourself again, there are therapies that can help you move forward with confidence and clarity. We’re here for you, with guidance, tools and support every step of the way.
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