Has anyone had a rectal balloon during radiation treatment?

Rectal balloons (also called rectal spacers or hydrogel spacers) are commonly used during prostate radiation therapy to help protect the rectum from radiation exposure. Many patients in this community have experience with this procedure, and it's completely normal to have questions about what to expect. The medical team will guide you through the process and ensure your comfort during treatment. Others here may share their experiences to help you feel more prepared for your upcoming February start date.

Gel spacers and gold fiducial markers emplanted near the prostate. Markers help techs align external beam radiation treatments and spacer moves rectum out and away from the radiation field to prevent long term rectal complications. Procedure done in office with minimal pain and unfortunately no anesthesia. Worst part is being awake and spread eagle room full of female staff

Hello guys, I just had my first radiation treatment. It went well. The bad thing about it. It is for me is having a full bladder and holding it in

You are correct it is a challenge. However, when I did my five weeks of five days a week I got into a routine. I knew how far time wise in advance to empty my bladder. Then when to start drinking water so I arrived with a full bladder but not on the verge of exploding. You will get into a routine with it.