Day 3 of radiation and all is well so far

Today was my 3rd day of radiation. Every time I go, the thought that this radiation is gradually killing me pops into my head. But then I ignore that thought and go through with it anyway. There's no way I'm going to let potential micro-cancer cells migrate through my body and wreak havoc a few months or years down the line. As usual, it was a painless procedure. The radiation itself took exactly 10 minutes.

After my treatment, I met with Dr. P2 and the nurse, M. We discussed how I've been feeling, if I've had any side effects. So far, nothing really. I did mention that my stint has been bothering me lately, but this is normal, and it will be out of my body by next week anyway.

M asked me if I've been sexually active lately, and I told her that I've really not been in the mood. She nodded with deep understanding in her eyes, then suggested the use of a dilator and kegel exercises. The reason these methods are important is that the radiation can shrink the vagina, making future gyn exams very uncomfortable. I prefer not to have to insert hard plastic into me, so I asked her if sex with my husband 3 times a week would be sufficient. I almost laughed when her eyes bugged out and she answered "yes" emphatically. I'm sure E will be delighted when I give him this homework assignment.

M also gave me a list of foods that are recommended if and when I start to experience stomach sensitivity and diarrhea. Apparently, the fresh raw fruits and vegetables are the worst things to eat because their high-fiber content really aggravate the digestive system at that point. Cooked fruits and vegetables are fine. Luckily, I'm still regular, so she told me to eat as many fruits and veggies now as I can because later, I won't be able to.

Finally, Dr. P2 did a quick examination of the skin around my pelvic area. He didn't see anything, but this is expected after just 3 days. He said that the skin could get dry or even darken slightly as I have more treatments, but that would be minimal. The skin where I might see the most difference would be in the back where my butt cheeks meet. He said that is because of the shape of the radiation beams, and the shape of the skin back there. Okay, I guess. There's nothing I can do about it but it's nice to get a heads up.