Effects of Radiation on Anal and Vaginal tissue.

You could maybe do some research and see what your health care providers think of this:
https://healthfully.com/vitamin-e-for-vaginal-dryness-6164818.html

@cathrine, I added your question to the colorectal cancer support group. I'm tagging other members like @joan19 @wilcy @soniamckenzie @marty28 @kerryos @amariewilkinson @trishdep189 @happygrandpa who have experience with anal cancer and who can add their thoughts and tips.

Cathrine, how are you doing? Has the skin improved?

Not sure if this could help but I recently started trying this and love it! Gentle and effective:
https://www.glownaturalwellness.com/glowbelow

Thank you, Coleen. I’m in my final 6th week of treatment, so side efffects are pretty intense. I am treating the vaginal lesions with a prescription for sterile Lidocaine gel. For lesions around my anus, I’m using a barrier cream. These topical treatments plus pain meds are getting me through this intense period. No way around it: radiation causes collateral damage, so managing the symptoms is the best we can do.
Thanks for checking in.

If you are still having issues a product called Biafine emulsion (order from US based French Pharmacy online) might help. Did not sting me and not so messy as petroleum based products. Also, domeboro soaks twice a day might help with healing of your skin. I found this help from a dermatologist. Hope this helps you. Clear with ur doc first. Neither requires a rx.

While I was having my radiation treatments for rectal cancer, my doctor had a cream they made up in the hospital called Happy Bottom Paste. After having a BM, I would use Tucks to cool down the anal tissue for a minute, used only wet disposable wipes, and then applied the Happy Bottom Paste. I understand it consisted of A&D ointment, Butt Paste, and Lidocaine. This did help a lot! Rest assured, the pain will subside in a while after the "sunburn" has healed on your anus. I describe it as passing shards of glass but I guess it's something we have to go through to get rid of the cancer. Take care.

I can relate so much to all your stories! I too had anal cancer and terrible burns and blisters from radiation. I say “had” anal cancer because I found out this week that I am cancer free! My anal cancer is finally gone! The days of not being able to wear clothes because the pain was so intense, the extreme tiredness, loss of appetite etc…all worth it just to hear those words. It’s been a long 18 months. I will still need to have a colostomy, the result of fecal incontinence from radiation. That will be scheduled soon. I almost needed APR surgery, but that is off the table now. I know this cancer can return. I hope we can stay one step ahead of it. There will still be scans and exams every 3 months. I’ve been treated at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. It is a wonderful facility. They are on top of everything. I cannot say enough good things about everyone who works there.

Update to my story…I am having colostomy surgery on October 26th. I am excited and a bit nervous. It’s definitely going to be a change for the better!

Good luck with the surgery @rioa21, wish you a speedy recovery and successful end to your healing journey!

Thank you!