I read in some information received about toilet use when receiving chemotherapy but can't find it again! Should you, if possible, use a different toilet? Also if only one toilet what precautions should be taken when a young child visits, not only toilets?
Hi EAH,
Thanks for your question. My name is Penelope and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists. I see that you have joined the ovarian cancer forum. I hope that you find it helpful and supportive.
At Macmillan we can only give general information so you could ask at the chemotherapy unit if they have any specific guidelines on body fluids after chemotherapy. Many areas do not give guidelines on things like using the toilet but there are some other sources of information that do. You may like to look at our booklet on understanding chemotherapy. The booklet does not suggest precautions with body fluids except in relation to sexual activity. This section is on page 83.
In general, it is thought that some chemotherapy may stay in body fluids for several days or up to a week after treatment. This will depend on the exact type of chemotherapy and how it is given. Treatment for bladder cancer, for example, involves having the chemotherapy put directly into the bladder. In this case the hospital will suggest precautions to avoid the chemotherapy being splashed on to skin or exposing other people to the drug. The chemotherapy nurses or an oncology pharmacist might be able to tell you how long the type of chemotherapy you are having would be expected to stay in your body fluids.
For chemotherapy given by mouth or into a vein unless there are guidelines issued by the chemotherapy doctor or nurses then you can mix with family and friends and use the toilet as normal. There is some information that can be found online such as this chemotherapy safety information from the American Cancer Society. This does recommend measures such as flushing the toilet twice and cleaning the seat after use. Some people prefer to follow this guidance, but it may be helpful to remember that there is little risk to visitors including children unless they come in to contact with your body fluids. Chemotherapy frequently lasts over several months and people are often largely at home for this time. It is important, therefore, to balance any safety concerns with what is practically possible and to continue to feel relaxed in your home.
If you have a young child visiting your chemotherapy treatment does not present any risk to them. One thing to mention, however, is that due to the risk of infection anyone having chemotherapy is advised if possible to stay away from people with coughs, colds and tummy bugs etc. This can be more difficult with children as they may be prone to infection themselves.
It can be daunting to read information about possible side effects of chemotherapy but please remember that everyone is different and there will be medication and support available to reduce and manage any side effects. Finally, you may like to sign up for a chemo kit from Cancer Support UK for a few supplies that other people have found helpful during chemotherapy.
Best wishes,
Penelope, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref/ SMJ
