clothing suggestions during radiation

I had pelvic radiation for rectal cancer (adenocarcinoma) but it's basically the same thing.  First of all, with regards to the chemo - will she be having a port placed and getting her chemo that way OR will she be on the oral form.  If a port, then she should have some open front shirts to make that access easier.

As far as the bottoms go, I was adament when I had my treatments about staying clothed.  As long as there are NO metallic anythings, they just let me scootch my gauchos/shorts/ etc. down a little and that was that.  After radiation, cotton is the best.

Please PM me as there are MANY things that your friend needs to know about pelvic (for rectal, anal, cervical - all the same in this respect) radiation that, unfortunately, the oncs do NOT tell the patients.  I can also send you the link for a anal squamous cell online support group.  I also belong to that group and they are wonderful!  But, again there are some serious side effects that can be minimzed or even eliminated (radiation side effects) that she needs to be very aware of right from the get go.

Jaynee

I had both the port and rectal radiation to deal with so I found casual sportswear (elastized pants with matching zippered tops) were perfect.  They were comfortable, allowed access for treatments yet looked good.  I still wear this clothing for follow up treatments. 

Hello...

  When my husband was going through this for the same treatment....he bought pants at a uniform shop. They had elastic waist with a draw string so he could wear during treatment. Scrub pants are great for there is no metal in them and can be worn. Please make sure she understands that there should be NOTHING on her skin before her treatments....NO LOTIONS. They will break down into oils and make her burn faster. She should shower before each treatment with GLYCERIN soap...it is all natural....it is also great to use if you are burnt....NO perfumes or deodrants to dry your skin out....or cause your burns to hurt when showering. When treatment is done for the day,TREAT your skin as often as possible until about an hour before you shower to go to your next treatment. Dial makes a Glycerin soap...it is sold in Walmart. Your freind CAN do this and win....This is a great site....We all are here for you and will share any info we can. STAY POSTITIVE.....God Bless....

                          HUGS always ..... Sheila

I am very interested in the advice you have for patients beginning treatment for anal cancer.  Anything that will make this terrible experience better please let me know.  Any and thing that you believe the doctor may over look to tell us.

Thanks

glenda