In recent years, strides in ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment have led to a decline in death rates, offering hope to those facing this formidable foe. However, the journey toward resuming a semblance of normalcy post-diagnosis and post-treatment can be complex.
If you’re struggling with ovarian cancer–whether as a patient, survivor, or caregiver–know there are ways to deal with the physical and emotional toll this awful disease can take on your life.
Tackling Treatment Side Effects
The path to recovery often involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy, each with its set of short- and long-term side effects. You may experience anything from muscle aches and peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage that causes pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the extremities such as the hands or feet) to nausea, vomiting, and bowel issues. Always talk openly with your care team to uncover ways to alleviate many of these side effects, improving your overall quality of life.
Coping with Long-Term Effects
For some survivors, the aftermath of treatment from surgery or chemotherapy can linger in the form of long-term side effects, such as peripheral neuropathy and challenges with cognitive function, commonly known as “chemo brain.” Additionally, some patients report an impact on their sexual health.
Thankfully, these long-term side effects are often very treatable. Stay open and honest with your doctor about what you’re experiencing so they can recommend a solution.
Facing the Fear of Recurrence
Ovarian cancer has a relatively high recurrence rate, particularly in its advanced stages. Even after successful treatment, many women can’t help but worry their cancer will come back. Emotional stress and depression have been with shown to develop in 1 in 4 patients with cancer. If you’re constantly worried about recurrence, try to live in the present. Focus on returning to life as usual (or as normal as it can be) and lean into your support network, whether by connecting with others who have shared similar experiences or seeking professional guidance to develop effective coping strategies. Integrative therapy approaches such as meditation, massage therapy, and especially yoga have been shown to help cancer patients with depression and grief.
Transitioning to Survivorship
Transitioning from active treatment to survivorship can be a delicate phase, marked by uncertainties and adjustments. There is also, of course, hope and relief. While you get back into the swing of daily life as an ovarian cancer survivor, stay diligent about monitoring for symptoms that could hint at recurrence.
Finding Support
Support is a cornerstone in the journey during and after ovarian cancer. You may consider joining a support group for fellow patients or survivors to share stories and be around others in similar situations. Your friends and family can be an excellent source of support and love, but sometimes, they may not understand what you’re going through. They haven’t experienced it themselves, after all.
Facing ovarian cancer is a unique and ongoing journey marked by challenges, triumphs, and the invaluable support of those who understand. As survivors navigate this terrain, embracing the “new normal” and seeking support when needed is crucial. With open communication, personalized care, and a supportive network, the path to reclaiming a fulfilling life after ovarian cancer becomes a shared endeavor filled with resilience and hope.
