Communities›Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer›How do I cope with vaginal dilation after pelvic radiation as a single woman?

How do I cope with vaginal dilation after pelvic radiation as a single woman?

Community Member

4 days ago

I’m having pelvic radiation for recurrence of endometrial cancer to the vaginal cuff. I am a single 73 year old Christian and I live a make a sacrifice and live a celibate life because of that. I am so dreading the prescribed vaginal dilation to prevent vaginal stenosis. One doctor said it was more for those sexually active but it’s also to prevent vagina from sticking together and making follow up pelvic exams impossible or uncomfortable. Is anyone else as horrified as I am about this? It seems humiliating and maybe it will be painful and time consuming. Can anyone help me face this? I’ll be tempted to be noncompliant but probably that’s not a good idea. I can hardly stand thinking about it. I am praying God will protect my vagina so I don’t have to do it a lot.

2 comments

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Community Member

4 days ago

I’m sorry I didn’t mean to be anonymous but I don’t know how to fix that. I am Helen.

Community Member

4 days ago

This concern about vaginal dilation after pelvic radiation is completely understandable, and many patients share similar feelings about this aspect of post-treatment care. The medical team's recommendation about preventing stenosis and maintaining the ability to have follow-up exams is important for ongoing health monitoring, and discussing specific concerns about the process with the healthcare team can help address fears and potentially identify ways to make it more manageable. Many patients in this community have faced similar challenges and may have helpful insights to share about coping strategies that worked for them.

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How do I cope with vaginal dilation after pelvic radiation as a single woman?

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