Preparing for radiation therapy

How do I prepare for radiation therapy?

Ask about fertility

Some types of radiation therapy affect fertility. If you think you may want to have children in the future, talk to your treatment team about your options before radiation therapy begins. 

Explore ways to relax

While you wait for treatment, read a book or listen to music, ask a friend or family member to keep you company, or try chatting to other people. To help you relax during the session, try breathing exercises or meditation. You could also listen to music or Cancer Council's relaxation and meditation podcast Finding Calm During Cancer.

Look after yourself

Try to eat nourishing food, drink lots of water, limit the amount of alcohol you drink, get enough sleep, and balance rest and physical activity. Regular exercise and good nutrition can help reduce some of the side effects of radiation therapy.

Organise help at home

Support with housework and cooking can ease the load. If you have young children, arrange for someone to look after them during radiation therapy sessions. Older children may need someone to drive them to and from school and activities. Ask a friend or family member to coordinate offers of help, or use an online tool such as Gather My Crew.

Discuss your concerns

Keep a list of questions and add to it whenever you think of a new question. If you are feeling anxious about having radiation therapy, talk to the treatment team, your GP, a family member or friend, or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20.

Consider quitting

If you smoke or vape, it is important to stop before starting treatment. Smoking or vaping may affect how well the treatment works and may make side effects worse. If you need support to quit, talk to our doctor or call the Quitline on 13 7848.

Check other medicines

Some over‑the‑counter medicines, alternative and home remedies, herbs, vitamins and creams can affect how radiation therapy works and increase skin reactions. Ask your radiation oncologist whether you need to stop taking or using any herbs, creams or supplements before treatment.

Check your teeth

If you are having radiation therapy for a cancer in the head and neck area, you may need a dental check‑up before treatment starts. The dentist can check for any decaying teeth and advise if they need to be removed before you start treatment.

Arrange transport and accommodation

Plan how you will get to radiation therapy sessions. If travelling by car, ask about parking. If you feel tired as the treatment goes on, you may want to arrange for someone to drive you. If you have to travel a long way for treatment, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help cover the cost of travel or accommodation. A social worker can help you apply or you can call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 for more information.

Mention medical implants

Let your treatment team know if you have any medical devices in your body. This may be a pacemaker, cochlear implant, or a hip or knee replacement. Radiation therapy can affect these devices or be affected by them.