Radiation therapy side effects of vulvar cancer

Radiation therapy is delivered by exposing cancer cells to high-energy rays or particles to destroy them.

The most common method of radiation therapy is known as external beam radiation or teletherapy.

With this method, a beam from a machine outside the body is focused in the area of the cancer.

Treatment usually involves receiving teletherapy for five days a week for about six weeks.

The side effects for this method of radiation therapy include a skin reaction like a sunburn on the outside of the skin, fatigue, nausea and diarrhea.

When delivered to the pelvis, premature menopause and problems with urination may also occur.