1. Scary Diagnosis
Any type of cancer diagnosis is a frightening thing. A diagnosis of cervical cancer comes with a unique set of concerns and questions for women. Cervical cancer often means the loss of fertility. Even women past child bearing age find it difficult to deal with the loss of their uterus. Younger women with or without children must cope with the idea they may never have children or a significant change in their plans for a family. Cervical cancer, like any cancer, also brings challenges related to work, relationships and finances.
2. Who Do You Tell?
One of the first issues to deal with after receiving a cervical cancer diagnosis is who to tell and when. Most families find it difficult to talk about cancer, and the cancer patient may feel the need to protect children and others by not giving an accurate picture of what's really happening. Finding a support group or cancer counselor to help you answer these questions is a great way to go. Cancer counselors and support groups provide patients with the tools they need to communicate their diagnosis in an appropriate way. Support groups also help families of cancer patients learn how to talk with their loved one about the disease and how to help.
3. Fatigue Factor
One of the most difficult areas to deal with in fighting cervical cancer is fatigue. Chemotherapy and radiation take their toll on the body and side effects often leave the cancer patient depleted of her normal energy. This affects work, relationships and everyday tasks and can also cause depression. Working with your doctor is important when it comes to fatigue. Certain tests measure fatigue levels and your doctor can prescribe medications, supplements or other methods to help fight fatigue.
4. Help With Pain
Cervical cancer treatment usually involves surgery and sometimes chemotherapy and radiation, depending on the severity of the cancer. Pain after surgery or during treatment is likely, so working on a pain management system with your doctors is important. Advances in pain management make a return to a somewhat normal life possible during treatment and after surgery. Pain management varies with the individual, so good communication with your doctor is crucial for appropriate help with pain.
5. Serious Side Effects
Cervical cancer treatment usually has side effects. With advances in cancer treatment procedures and better drugs, side effects are more manageable. Following instructions carefully on eating, sleeping and taking medications before, during and after treatment makes a big difference. Talk with your cancer team about any side effects you're having in order to get the proper treatment.
