Bladder problems

Radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvic area can irritate the bladder or, more often, the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body).

Learn more about:

• Cystitis
• Urinary incontinence

Cystitis

You may feel you want to pass urine more often or you might have some stinging when you pass urine. This is called cystitis. Try to drink plenty of water to make your urine less concentrated.

Urinary incontinence

Incontinence is when urine leaks from your bladder without your control. After radiation therapy, you may need to pass urine more often, particularly at night, or feel as if you need to go in a hurry. You may leak a few drops of urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh or strain. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help with bladder control. Ask your doctor for a referral to a continence nurse or physiotherapist, or contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.

Let your treatment team know if you have bladder or urinary problems, as they will be able to suggest strategies and may recommend medicines. To help manage these side effects, drink plenty of fluids and avoid drinking strong coffee, tea and alcohol.