TRANSCRIPT
Maj Patel
Follow-up care after treatment for ovarian cancer is extremely important. Even when the cancer seems to have been completely removed or destroyed, the disease often returns because undetected cancer cells remain somewhere in your body after treatment.
Lt Col Flemings
Your provider will monitor your recovery and check for recurrence of the cancer. Checkups help ensure that any changes in your health are detected, and treated if necessary. Checkups may include a pelvic exam, a CA-125 test, other blood tests, and imaging exams such as CT scans and MRIs. Between scheduled visits, feel free to contact your provider right away if you have any concerns about your health.
Maj Patel
Emotional issues after treatment are fairly common, including depression and fears about whether or not the cancer will return. These are natural, but can be quite stressful. Coping with these emotional issues is critical to your recovery.
Lt Col Flemings
It’s important for patients to develop a wellness plan that includes ways to address physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. This may include physical rehabilitation, counseling, or group support. Your provider can help you design a wellness plan that will work best for you.