Long-Term Effects of Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy: What to Expect

Doctors may use RAI, or radioactive iodine therapy, to treat patients with thyroid cancer. Radioactive iodine destroys a patient̵7;s thyroid gland to kill all cancer cells in the thyroid. This therapy may have some long-term effects.

Male Fertility

• According to the American Cancer Society, male patients who have received radioactive iodine therapy may develop lower sperm counts and the therapy rarely causes infertility.

Menstruation

• Women may experience irregular menstrual periods for up to one year after RAI and the treatment may have other effects on the ovaries.

Pregnancy

• Doctors may recommend that women do not become pregnant until six to 12 months after radioactive iodine therapy because of potential complications in the female reproductive system.

Leukemia

• Patients may have a slightly higher risk of developing leukemia after undergoing radioactive iodine therapy.

Short-Term Side Effects

• Radioactive iodine therapy patients may experience short-term effects such as neck tenderness, upset stomach or dry mouth. Tender salivary glands and changes in the sense of taste may occur after this type of treatment.