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How to Deal With Ovarian Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Ovarian cancer is a tumor or malignancy in 1 or both of the ovaries, the female organs that produce eggs. Each type of ovarian cancer treatment comes with its own side effects. Although these are usually uncomfortable and sometimes painful, there are almost always ways to cope with them.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet access
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Instructions

  1. Deal With the Side Effects of Surgical Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

    • 1

      Understand the side effects of surgical treatment for ovarian cancer. Depending on the stage of your cancer, an oncological surgeon will remove 1 or both of your ovaries, your uterus and possibly your fallopian tubes. The immediate side effects are the inability to have children and instant menopause.

    • 2

      Consider starting hormone replacement therapy to counteract the onset of menopause.

    • 3

      Manage pain as a side effect of surgery by taking pain medication. Be sure to communicate with your doctor so that he or she knows the extent of your pain and prescribes the proper dosage.

    • 4

      Be aware of both the benefits and dangers of pain medication. Discuss the potential for addiction with your doctor, and alert him or her if you are a recovering addict or a person with a tendency toward addiction.

    Deal With the Side Effects of Chemotherapy

    • 5

      Understand that chemotherapy is a very common treatment for ovarian cancer patients. Chemotherapy is usually used after surgery to follow up and make sure that all the cancer cells are killed.

    • 6

      Realize that there are many side effects of chemotherapy. While additional medication can be prescribed to deal with some of these side effects, nothing can be done about hair loss. Many women find that cutting their hair short before treatment helps the transition, while other women wear wigs or scarves.

    • 7

      Eat well. This will help build your strength as you manage side effects like fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Seeing a dietitian or nutritionist during treatment can help you learn more about an appropriate diet.

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