Anyone have rectal pain after radiation? What helps?

May I ask if you had SpaceOAR? I understand that the rectum is an organ at risk, and some radiation patients had a gel spacer between theprostate and rectum (to protect the latter).
My care team indicated that I don't need spacer. I wonder if some of those who experience rectal side effects had no SpaceOAR?. My radiation treatment starts on April 9.

I’m not the OP, but I did have SpaceOAR inserted before my 39 VMAT sessions almost two years ago. I have had no rectal discomfort, though I did pass some blood one day over a year after the treatment. No blood since that one time. On the other hand, I have a friend who underwent similar treatment last year, but without any spacer (he was told he didn’t need it). He has had continuous rectal bleeding issues for the past several months and has had at least 3 procedures to address the issue without much success.

I had SBRT in December 2023. I had a Barrigel rectal spacer placed and have had no GI side effects.
Unless your lesion is in an area that contraindicates spacer placement, my two-bits is get it.
Stay Strong Brother

Didn't have any spacers put in my oncologist Give me A prescription for suppositories I'm hoping this helps in the next couple weeks

Would you mind asking your friend what machine was used for his radiation? Older machines have a 3-5 mm margin, and newer machines have 1-2 mm. The small margin means less chance the radiation will hit an organ at risk (in this case, the rectum). The machine for my radiation will be the Elekta MR-Linac (1-2 mm margin). Has any one in this support group had an experience with the MR-Linac (similar to MRidian).

Some information I found about this question.

Rectal pain after prostate radiation is a common side effect, often caused by radiation proctitis, which is inflammation or irritation of the rectum. Here are some potential solutions:
Lifestyle Adjustments
• Dietary Changes: Increase fiber intake to soften stools and reduce strain during bowel movements.
• Hygiene: Use mild baby wipes or water for cleaning, and apply soothing lotions or ointments after drying.
Medications
• Anti-inflammatory Treatments: Options like Rowasa enemas, Canasa suppositories, or hydrocortisone creams can reduce inflammation.
• Pain Management: B&O suppositories or lidocaine-based creams can help with severe rectal pain.
• Stool Softeners: Medications like Colace or Citrucel can ease bowel movements.
Topical and Procedural Interventions
• Sitz Baths: Soaking the rectal area in warm water twice daily can alleviate discomfort.
• Laser Therapy: Effective for managing rectal bleeding caused by radiation-induced damage.
When to See a Doctor
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider for tailored treatments, such as steroid enemas or other advanced therapies.

Thank you for your reply the pain is somewhat manageable no bleeding no difficult Bow movements she recommended cream hydrocortisone

My friend and I both received treatment using the Varian Truebeam, though at different facilities.

Pain killing suppositories I hope ?

This may sound silly but I found relief using the WalMart branded "Vagicare." It says it's for vaginal itching but the principal active ingredient is 20% benzocaine which seemed to help quite a bit (and it was significantly cheaper than most of the rectal meds).