Brachytherapy therapy

I had brachytherapy in July 2024 I’ve had nothing but trouble . EDF, pain every time I pass water been told it’s radiation burns then the senior urologist tells me it would have healed by now, but THINKS it could be that the bladder has shrunk  and that I have 2 strictures in the uretha so I am having to self catheterise 3 times a week for a year . The only good thing to come out of this ordeal is that the cancer in the prostate has gone. However it has left me depressed and regretting ever having the treatment, I honestly wish I had let the cancer take its own course even though I would probably have been dead by now. My advice for what it is worth think seriously before you go ahead with brachytherapy.

  • Hello Telboy and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to learn that you are feeling depressed and regret having the brachytherapy because of long-term side effects. 

    It is difficult when it is the treatment that is causing the symptoms rather than the cancer itself and it is common to feel depressed after treatment has finished. I wondered if your GP is aware of how low you are feeling. It is worth chatting with them as they may be able to help you with this.

    You may also find it helpful to speak with your nurse specialist (CNS) about how you are feeling and the side effects you are experiencing as they may be able to advise and support you further. I am unsure where you are in the UK and whether or not there is a Maggie's Centre near your hospital. They are a drop-in centre that offers information and support to people affected by cancer. 

    You may also find it helpful to post in the 'living with cancer' section, as you may get more posts from others in a similar situation.

    I hope this helps a little. If you would like to speak with one of our nurses on the helpline, you would be welcome to call on freephone 0808 800 4040, the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care Telboy, all the best

    Jemma