Chemotherapy affects everyone differently, so it can be hard to know how to prepare for treatment. However, there are some things you can do before you start your chemotherapy treatment that can make coping with the treatment and any side effects easier.
 | Look after yourselfTry to stay as healthy as you can before and during treatment. Eat nourishing food, drink lots of water, get enough sleep, and balance rest and physical activity. Regular exercise and good nutrition can help reduce some of the side effects of chemotherapy. If you smoke or vape, try to quit. |
| Ask about fertilitySome types of chemotherapy can affect fertility. If you think you may want to have a child in the future, talk to your specialist about your options before chemotherapy begins. |
| Pack a chemo bagA bag for your chemo sessions could include warm clothing; healthy snacks; lip balm; and something to pass the time, such as books, headphones for listening to music or podcasts, or a laptop. |
| Organise helpIf you have children, arrange for someone to look after them during chemotherapy sessions. While you may be able to drive after treatment, it’s recommended that someone drive you on the first day. Ask a friend or family member to coordinate offers of help (e.g. with cooking, gardening), or use online tools such as gathermycrew.org.au. |
| Discuss your concernsIf you feel anxious about having chemotherapy and the side effects, talk to a family member or friend, your health care team, or call Cancer Council 13 11 20. You could also try relaxation exercises or meditation to help manage anxiety or listen to the podcast below. |
| Talk to your employerIf you are working, talk to your employer about how you can manage work and chemotherapy. It is hard to predict how you will feel, so ask about flexible hours or time off when needed. |
| Freeze some mealsYou may not feel like cooking when having chemotherapy. Consider making some meals ahead of time and freezing them or have ready- to-eat food available (e.g. tinned fruit, yoghurt, soup). |
| See your dentistIt is a good idea to visit your dentist before you start chemotherapy. Infection and bleeding are more likely during chemotherapy, so it is best to have any tooth decay treated before starting treatment. Having dental problems during treatment may also interrupt your treatment schedule. |
| Prepare for side effectsTalk to your treatment team about possible side effects. Ask whether you can take medicine to prevent nausea and vomiting. Buy a thermometer so you can check your temperature. If hair loss is likely, think about having it cut or choosing a wig before treatment starts. Learn more about managing side effects. |
| Check other medicinesLet your doctor and pharmacist know about any over-the-counter medicines, alternative and home remedies, herbs and vitamins you are taking. Some can affect how chemotherapy works or make side effects worse. For more on this see Complementary therapies and chemotherapy. |
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A/Prof Kate Mahon, Director of Medical Oncology, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, NSW; Katherine Bell, Dietetics Department, Liverpool Hospital, NSW; Brigitta Leben, Dietetics Department, Liverpool Hospital, NSW; Sophie Michele, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Dr Jess Smith, Medical Oncologist, Macquarie University Hospital, NSW; Karene Stewart, Consumer; Julie Teraci, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Skin Cancer and Melanoma, Cancer Network WA.
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