Systematic review of self-management practices for vaginal irrigation among cervical cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

To identify, evaluate, and summarize the best available evidence regarding the self - management behaviors of vaginal irrigation in patients undergoing radiotherapy for cervical cancer, in order to inform clinical practice.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and major Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang Data, SinoMed) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on vaginal irrigation self - management in this patient population from the start until August 12, 2025. Although a search for high - level evidence such as guidelines and systematic reviews was planned, none met the inclusion criteria. Two researchers independently performed literature screening, quality assessment, and data extraction. The included evidence was graded, and recommendations were generated using the JBI (2014) evidence pre - grading and recommendation system.

RESULTS

A total of 23 RCTs were included. The best evidence was synthesized into 12 key recommendations across four domains: individualized management strategies, systematic health education, innovative supervision and promotion methods, and psychological and environmental support.

CONCLUSION

Evidence from this review supports conditional recommendations (Grade B) for vaginal irrigation self - management, given the high risk of bias in the included RCTs. Healthcare professionals may consider these suggestions while integrating clinical expertise and patient preferences. Systematic, nurse - led management protocols tailored to local contexts may enhance adherence and reduce complications, pending higher - quality confirmatory research.