Laxative (oral) use during pelvic radiotherapy

You have been asked to take some regular laxatives before having a CT (computed tomography) planning scan.

The position of the organs in your pelvis may vary depending on the fullness of your rectum (lower part of your bowel). By using laxatives to empty your bowel this may help reduce side effects as well as aiding treatment accuracy each day.

• You have been asked to take 2 Senna tablets and 2 Docusate sodium tablets on the two evenings before your planning CT scan. You can then stop the tablets, but remember to re-start two days before your radiotherapy treatment begins and continue for the first two weeks.
• Please continue to follow the food and fluid advice written on your radiotherapy information sheet.
• It is very likely you will need to reduce your laxatives during treatment. The radiographer or doctor will advise you how and when you should do this.
• If you develop diarrhoea (liquid faeces) stop the laxatives, increase your fluid intake and talk to your treatment radiographer at your next visit. Mucous (slime) or 'rabbit dropping' faeces are not classed as diarrhoea; in such event you should continue with your laxatives.

If you are unable to open your bowels, seek advice at your next visit.

Privacy and dignity

Same sex bays and bathrooms are offered in all wards except critical care and theatre recovery areas where the use of high-tech equipment and/or specialist one-to-one care is required.