Breast cancer - swimming and covid

To be honest, aged 76 and double jabbed long since, I’m scared too, and wouldn’t go to a swimming pool if you paid me! I have a very vulnerable hubs too. 

Hugs xxx

Thanks Moomy, I am sure you're right, looks like I'll need to get motivated to do some walking. I'm really not into exercise but need to fill my days.  Walking it is. 

My gym (Nuffield) says that the chlorine in the swimming pool helps to squash bugs and viruses... you could ask about that at your local pool? Or ask your breast care nurse.

It's one of those tricky situations where everyone has to decide for themselves what the level of risk is. Personally I went to the gym (though not pool) during chemo (outwith nadir period) because despite the risk I though it was worth it for my general wellbeing. I do think general wellbeing and mental health is discounted in much of the guidance. However, I'm not in close contact with someone else who is vulnerable.

I think you are right to be cautious but also don't let that be an absolute blocker to you doing something that's beneficial for you. Perhaps you could do a recce trip to your gym/pool, without actually getting in and doing anything, and see what you think of how it's run? It might raise your confidence a bit. Going at quiet times of the day could also be an option.

I think it would depend on where you are in your treatment? I was told (pre-COVID) that whilst I was having chemo it was a complete no, I think also for radiotherapy (didn’t have that so can’t be sure) Not because of germs but because the chemicals could cause adverse reactions. It’s not advisable to swim if you have had surgery recently, you should check with your BCN or your GP would be able to advise. I have been back swimming since we have been able to, my pool you have to book and there are measures in place to keep people as safe as possible. You have to really make your own decision re COVID risk, every one has their own personal boundaries, but for me I love it , and most of the people in the pool are elderly , it is one place I feel young! I think radge ‘s suggestion on going and having a look at your local pool is a great idea, I’m sure if you contacted them they would be more than happy to help you.

Thanks Jowoomot and radge, interesting perspectives.  I went to the pool pre breast cancer (hate the gyms personally) and it is well run, but nervous I guess about increasing the risk of anything.  It's just dawned on me that I using the breast cream pre radiotherapy and the pool does make my legs itch from drying out my skin when i was going a few times a week.  On reflection I think it may be walking for the time being.  Thanks for the different perspectives, nothing is straight forward any more