Side Effects of Surgery for GTD
It’s hard to limit the effects of treatment so that only cancer cells are removed or destroyed. Because treatment also damages healthy cells and tissues, it often causes unwanted, and sometimes serious, side effects. Doctors and nurses can explain the possible side effects of your treatment. They can also suggest ways to help prevent or manage these side effects. It’s important to let the doctor or nurse know if you experience any side effects.
It’s important to discuss your specific surgery with your doctor. After surgery, you may need a urinary catheter to for a time drain your bladder. Whether you need a catheter or not, you may have urinary problems. For instance you may experience frequent urination, smaller bladder capacity, or some pain with urination. You may also have trouble with bowel movements for several weeks. If you do, you may need stool softeners and diet changes. It is common to have bleeding, abdominal discomfort, and vaginal discharge for a couple weeks after surgery.
You are likely to be uncomfortable during the first few weeks after surgery. Pain, though, can be controlled with medication. Talk with your doctor or nurse about ways to relieve pain. You can also expect to feel tired or weak for a while after surgery. How long it takes to recover from an operation varies for each woman.
Surgery can affect your sexuality. Some women grieve because they are no longer able to have children. If this is likely in your case, it’s important that your partner and doctor understand how you feel. It helps to talk about these issues with your doctor before the procedure.
For more information about surgical procedures, click here.
It’s a good idea to gather as much information about your procedure as you can. Here are some questions you can ask your doctor to help you find out about your surgery.
Surgery Questions
- What kinds of surgery can I consider? Which operation do you recommend for me?
- Will I need radiation after surgery?
- How will I feel after surgery?
- Where will the scars be? What will they look like?
- Will I have to do special exercises after surgery?
- When can I get back to my normal activities?
