I was diagnosed with Stage 3c Cervical Cancer in July 2024.
My treatment consisted of Chemoradiotherapy and Brachytherapy. I had 5 rounds of Cisplatin chemo; 25 rounds of pelvic radiotherapy and an in-patient stay for 18 hours of Brachytherapy. I completed my treatment in October 2024.
I found out about Pelvic Radiation Disease after doing my own online research. It wasn’t really discussed with me in any great depth after my treatment. I was keen to check whether the symptoms I was experiencing were considered normal.
“Reading other people’s stories has been invaluable to me in my recovery.”
I had been provided with some information regarding late effects of radiotherapy, but I was keen to find out other people’s perspective from their personal experiences.
I have bladder issues, I am no longer as able to hold my urine, and I have pain when I do pass urine.
I do have some bowel issues – I am not able to hang on, I do need to rush to the toilet, which causes issues when going out.
I have significant muscle/bone pain, particularly in my hips and lower back. This sometimes feels quite debilitating, and I have to push myself to keep mobile.
My hormonal side effects are extreme – hot flushes and night sweats. This has a massive impact on my sleep, and I am currently having approx. 3 hours of sleep at best. This is particularly difficult as my energy levels are already affected by the fatigue.
My concentration span and memory are also affected, my ability to retain information has been severely affected.
“I’ve learnt to listen to my body more and rest when I need to.”
All of this can be quite frustrating and embarrassing at times. I am a single parent to two children and have returned to work full-time. All of my symptoms have a massive impact on day-to-day life.
I am so grateful to be able to return to some sense of normality, I have been able to make adjustments to my lifestyle. Gentle exercise has helped with the fatigue and body pain. I have learnt to listen to my body more and rest when I need to. I try to eat healthier. I plan more now and make lists; my calendar has become my best friend.
I have found great advice online, from people going through the same experience as me. Their advice and reading their stories have been invaluable to me in my recovery.
I do think more information and advice could be provided to patients after treatment has ended. Advice and guidance for both physical and mental health needs. I am very lucky to have very supportive friends and family, but it can feel like a very lonely place at times.
Useful links
If, like Claire, you struggle with feeling lonely, being part of our Online Community or Chat Together support group can help by providing a sense of connection, understanding, and shared experience. 
Talking to others who have faced similar challenges offers emotional support, practical advice, and reassurance that you’re not alone.
You don’t have to face this on your own. Join our peer-support network to connect, share, and rediscover hope together.
- If bladder or bowel issues make going out feel like a challenge, our Out and About Toolkit is here to help. It includes practical tips to support you in managing PRD and tools, like a RADAR key and a ‘Just Can’t Wait’ toilet card, to help you feel more confident when venturing out.
The PRD Best Practice Pathway – Designed for healthcare professionals caring for those with Pelvic Radiation Disease, the PRD Best Practice Pathway is also a valuable resource for people living with PRD, seeking to understand their care options and advocate for better support.- The British Society of Gastroenterology has recently published new Guidance on Managing Gastrointestinal Symptoms After Cancer Treatment.