14 FAQs About Chemotherapy for Ovarian Cancer
1. What are the goals of treatment?
Chemotherapy is usually recommended after surgery for most stages of ovarian cancer and a combination of chemotherapy medications is typically used. The primary goal is to destroy cancer cells by preventing them from growing and dividing rapidly and get the patient into complete remission.
2. Who does the treatment?
An oncologist, or cancer doctor, oversees and prescribes the treatment. A study found no difference in survival between patients who received chemotherapy administered by gynecologic oncologists and medical oncologists. A nurse may administer the chemotherapy medications into a vein or intravenous (IV). Advanced ovarian cancer patients may have intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy, where medications are injected through a catheter or port into your abdomen.
3. Does it matter where I have it done?
Chemotherapy is usually administered in a doctor's office, clinic, or outpatient unit at a hospital. Chemo follows a standard protocol so your care should not vary greatly from place to place. You may decide to travel to an academic hospital, especially if you are interested in clinical trials.
4. What do I need to know about clinical trials?
You may be interested in participating in clinical trials or research studies, and want to find out if you're eligible. Some clinical trials are open only to patients who have not started treatment. Clinical trials are designed to find better ways to treat cancer patients. Talk to your oncologist about your eligibility.
5. How often is it done?
The number of treatment cycles you have will depend on the stage of your disease. For example, if you have advanced ovarian cancer, you may get a course of chemotherapy that involves six cycles every three weeks. A cycle is a schedule that allows regular doses of a drug, followed by a rest period. Different drugs have varying cycles; your oncologist will prescribe the particular cycle or schedule for your chemotherapy.
6. How long does it take?
The chemotherapy itself may take five to six hours, depending on the drug combination. That does not include the time required to collect bloodwork before chemo and a physical exam that may be done on the same day.
7. Can I take myself to treatment?
Generally, you should arrange for someone to pick you up after the first cycle of chemo because some of the pre-medications for chemo may cause drowsiness.
8. Can I work during treatments?
It depends. Talk to your oncologist about your concerns. Some people benefit from keeping to a regular work schedule with flexibility if they don't feel well. Some schedule chemotherapy for Fridays so that they have time over the weekend to recover. Others may want to take medical leave from work.
9. What are the side effects?
The severity of side effects varies greatly from person to person. Common temporary side effects include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain. You may also be at increased risk for bruising, bleeding, infection, and anemia. Permanent side effects include premature menopause and infertility.
WebMD Medical Reference
Related to Ovarian Cancer
Today in Ovarian Cancer
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.