I have / had a gynaecological cancer
Surgery, Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy are the common treatments for various Gynaecological cancers. These, very important, treatments can lead to a variety of side effects which may include:
- Pain with sex
- Vaginal Dryness
- Lymphoedema
- Prolapse
- Urinary incontinence
- Bowel incontinence
- Problems defaecating
- Problems emptying your bladder
- Lethargy
These side effects are often very personal and can be highly distressing. Please ask your doctor to refer you to the Physiotherapists at KEMH if you are experiencing any of the side effects.
A Women’s Health Physiotherapist has specialised skills to help with these problems. They will complete a detailed assessment and develop a specialised management plan to help you achieve your goal. It is important to note, treatment for these problems can take some time. The Physiotherapists will closely monitor your progress to ensure you are ‘on track.’
Physiotherapists will also discuss general exercise with you. Exercise is important to optimise your cancer treatment and recovery. Exercise means different things for different people and a programme can be written up which is achievable for you.
Exercise options and resources
ECU exercise classes (external sites)
Improving health, function and physical performance (external sites)
Exercise and meditative courses (external sites)
Useful sites
Cancer Council (external sites)
Solaris Cancer Care (external site)
Gynaecological Awareness Information Network (GAIN) (external site)