Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of anti cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells.

Chemotherapy works by killing cancer cells and has different effects on different types of cancer. You might have a combination of different chemotherapy drugs.

Whether you have chemotherapy as part of your treatment depends on what type of cancer you have, how big it is and whether it has spread or not.

People usually have chemotherapy either at home, in hospital or at a day clinic. There are different ways of having chemotherapy drugs. Your doctor will talk about the most suitable option for you.

Doctors plan a course of chemotherapy treatment for each individual person. The treatment plan might change from time to time. 

Most chemotherapy side effects are temporary, but some people are affected months or years after treatment.

Some of the by-products of systemic anti cancer therapy (SACT) come out of your body in your vomit, wee, poo, blood or other bodily fluids during and for some time after your treatment. This can be harmful to others. So you must take precautions if you go home.

Chemotherapy might affect your everyday life, from the way you feel to socialising and holidays. You can get tips and support to help you cope. 

Chemotherapy might affect your ability to have children (fertility). You might want to look into fertility treatments or get support to help you cope.

Some people carry on with their sex lives as normal during chemotherapy. Others find their treatment changes how they feel emotionally or physically.

You should not become pregnant or get someone pregnant while having chemotherapy. Talk with your doctor if you are pregnant when you are diagnosed with cancer.