Hi i am 53 and I was diagnosed with potential stage 4 ovarian cancer awhile ago but had to have biopsies to confirm what I had, now been confirmed and it is ovarian cancer and they are still looking at stage 4. I cannot have surgery yet as mass is too large so I have my 1st chemo session this coming Friday to try and shrink and then possible surgery after 3 cycles if shrunk. Has anyone got any tips for my first session? Thanks
Hi,
Really sorry to hear your news, but hoping you’ll find some comfort from having a treatment plan in place, and from sharing experiences with others on this site on similar journeys.
From my own experience, I’d describe chemo as tough but do-able. The stronger and fitter you can be going into it the better - so if you can try to eat healthily, get a bit of exercise, and make time for rest and relaxation that’s a good start 
. Generally, the first few days after each cycle of chemo hit the hardest - I found the anti-sickness meds very effective, but worth having some ginger tea and ginger biscuits in the house in advance of your first session to help with any nausea. Constipation is also a very common side effect of the chemo drugs, so worth stocking up with Senna, fresh fruit and prune juice.
In terms of things to take in with you, I’d recommend magazines rather than a book (as it can be hard to concentrate, and the drugs can make you feel tired too). It helps to be comfy too - so loose fitting clothes (with easy access to your arms for the cannula or your chest if you have a port fitted). I even used to pack my slippers !!
Wishing you all the best for Friday and, if you feel like posting again, it’d be great to hear how you're getting on.
Love Bx
