Prostate cancer radiotherapy uses targeted radiation to treat the prostate or the area where the prostate used to be after surgery. It may be used on its own or with hormone therapy.
The treatment plan depends on your PSA, biopsy result, scans, symptoms, and whether you have had surgery before.
01 · Understand the examination
About this scan
Common Indications for Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy
Your doctor may recommend it for:
- Localised prostate cancer.
- Cancer with higher risk of coming back.
- Rising PSA after prostate surgery.
- Cancer spread causing bone pain.
- Treatment combined with hormone therapy.
- Symptom control in advanced disease.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
Usually no. Tell your team about blood thinners, diabetes medicine, urinary medicines, and hormone injections.
What happens when I arrive?
The radiographers check that your bladder and bowel preparation is acceptable. They position you on the couch and use imaging to line up the treatment area.
Is there any discomfort?
The treatment does not hurt. Holding a full bladder can be uncomfortable, so ask the team what "full enough" means for your centre.
Are there risks?
Side effects may include passing urine more often, burning when urinating, loose stool, rectal discomfort, tiredness, and sexual changes. Some effects settle; others, including urinary, bowel, erection, and fertility changes, can appear or persist later. If future fertility matters, discuss sperm banking or other options before treatment starts.
Can I have prostate radiotherapy after surgery?
Yes, in selected cases. It may be used if the pathology result shows higher risk or if PSA rises after surgery.
02 · Plan ahead
Before your appointment
What exactly does prostate radiotherapy treat?
It treats the prostate, prostate bed, or selected nearby lymph node areas. If the goal is pain relief, it may treat a painful bone area instead.
How should I prepare?
Many prostate plans need a consistent bladder and bowel setup. You may be asked to drink water before treatment or empty your bowels. Follow the centre's instruction closely.
How is the treatment performed?
The machine delivers radiation from outside the body. You lie still while the machine moves around you.
How long does treatment take?
Each visit is often 10 to 30 minutes. The full course may last days or weeks, depending on the dose schedule.
03 · Important exceptions
Safety and special situations
Can I have this treatment if my partner is pregnant?
External beam prostate radiotherapy does not make you radioactive. If brachytherapy seeds are used, your team will give specific safety advice about close contact.
04 · Know the red flags
When to seek urgent help
When should I contact the team urgently?
Contact the team promptly if you cannot pass urine, have heavy rectal or urinary bleeding, fever with urinary symptoms, severe pain, repeated vomiting, or dehydration. Seek urgent care if you are unable to pass urine or bleeding is heavy.
05 · Learn more
Sources and summary
Sources and further reading
Conclusion
Prostate radiotherapy depends heavily on repeatable bladder and bowel positioning. Ask for clear preparation instructions, and tell your team early about urinary or bowel symptoms.