When is radiation therapy used to treat cervical cancer?

Radiation therapy is often used to treat all stages of cervical cancer. It can be used alone for early-stage cancer or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or both for more advanced cancer.

During radiation therapy, high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation are used to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be given externally, in which case a machine outside the body directs radiation at the cancer, or internally, in which case radioactive material is placed inside the body near the cancer.

External radiation therapy is typically given 5 days a week for several weeks. Internal radiation therapy, also called brachytherapy, may be given for a few days or weeks.

Radiation therapy can cause a variety of side effects, including:

* Skin irritation

* Hair loss

* Fatigue

* Nausea and vomiting

* Diarrhea

* Urinary problems

* Sexual problems

These side effects are usually temporary and go away after treatment is completed.

Radiation therapy can be a very effective treatment for cervical cancer. The success of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the type of radiation therapy that is used.