CHEMOTHERAPY
Chemotherapy involves using anti-cancer (cytotoxic) medicine to kill cancer cells.
It's usually used after surgery to destroy any cancer cells that have not been removed. This is called adjuvant chemotherapy.
In some cases, you may have chemotherapy before surgery, which is often used to shrink a large tumour. This is called neo-adjuvant chemotherapy.
Several different medicines are used in chemotherapy, and 2 to 3 are often given at once.
The choice of medicine and the combination will depend on the type of breast cancer you have and how far it has spread.
Chemotherapy is usually given as an outpatient treatment, which means you will not have to stay in hospital overnight.
The medicines are usually given through a drip straight into a vein.
In some cases, you may be given tablets that you can take at home. You may have chemotherapy sessions once every 2 to 4 weeks and then have a break. Each treatment session is known as a cycle. You may have up to 8 cycles of chemotherapy.
The main side effects of chemotherapy are caused by its influence on normal, healthy cells, such as immune cells.
Side effects of chemotherapy include:
- infections
- loss of appetite
- feeling sick
- being sick
- tiredness
- hair loss
- sore mouth
Many side effects can be prevented or controlled with medicines that your doctor can prescribe.
Chemotherapy medicine can also stop the production of oestrogen in your body, which is known to encourage the growth of some breast cancers.
If you have not experienced the menopause, your periods may stop while you're having chemotherapy treatment.
After you have finished the course of chemotherapy, your ovaries should start producing oestrogen again.
But this does not always happen and you may enter an early menopause. This is more likely in women over 40, as they're closer to menopausal age.
Your doctor will discuss with you the impact that treatment will have on your fertility.
Chemotherapy for secondary breast cancer
If your breast cancer has spread beyond the breast and lymph nodes to other parts of your body, chemotherapy will not cure the cancer, but it may shrink the tumour, relieve your symptoms and help lengthen your life.
Want to know more?
For more information click through the the NHS website and if you notice any changes in your breasts or are worried at all please contact your GP.
Watch our LoveRose talk with our amazing model Debbie here, where she talks about her experience with Chemotherapy.
Our first collection has been designed for the different outcomes of surgery. For chemotherapy treatment without breast removal we would recommend any of our non-pocketed bras.
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This non pocketed bra is designed with an inner hammock to provide extra support without the need for underwires! Perfect for women who have had a reconstruction, lumpectomy or a natural breast. The high apex design is ultra flattering and is great for any woman wanting a supportive and uplifting wire free bra. |
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This soft bra is a beautiful choice for a range of breast sizes. The ruched silk underband is not only sumptuous but also very supportive. It has inner support hammocks and supportive side boning which works wonders for that cleavage! The removable silk covered straps provide you with a number of style options so you can wear it whatever way takes your fancy. – We love options! |
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This front fastening wire free bra uses the softest breathable jersey, trimmed with sumptuous silk. With discreet pockets this bra is perfect for any post op outcome. Designed to provide amazing post surgery support to any size of breast, you can pair it with our Fearless Pant to complete your set. |
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Haven't Got a Stitch to Wear Bra A fresh take on the classic bralette, this fun peplum trimmed lace bra has contrasting silk covered straps. This bra is perfect for anyone who doesn’t require a pocket in their post surgery bra and the seaming has all been thoughtfully placed to avoid scarring. The added support of the elastic underband and mesh lined cups negates the need for damaging underwires. The stretchy nature of the fabric also gives room for larger boobs, making it suitable for up to a LoveRose 1X. |
For chemotherapy treatment combined with breast removal without reconstruction we would recommend any of our pocketed bras.
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This pocketed, post surgery bra is a luxury wire free bra. Designed with our signature recycled lace and mesh and trimmed with silk. It’s bilateral soft bra pockets hold a breast form or enhancer securely in place and is the ideal mastectomy bra. The higher centre front is designed to provide modesty to ladies who have had a single or double mastectomy. A timeless foundation piece; an extra layer of confidence.
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This front fastening wire free bra uses the softest breathable jersey, trimmed with sumptuous silk. With discreet pockets this bra is perfect for any post op outcome. Designed to provide amazing post surgery support to any size of breast, you can pair it with our Fearless Pant to complete your set. |