Page last updated: August 2024
The information on this webpage has been adapted from Understanding Chemotherapy - A guide for people with cancer, their families and friends (2022 edition). This webpage was last updated in February 2024.
Expert content reviewers:
This information was developed with help from a range of health professionals and people affected by cancer who have had chemotherapy. We thank the reviewers of this booklet:
- 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
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.
Resources in other languages
We have a range of resources in other languages to improve access to cancer information and support for culturally and linguistically diverse Victorians.
You can also call 13 14 50 to talk to a cancer nurse in your own language.
Learn more
Ask about fertility
Some 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 bag
A 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.
Look after yourself
Try to stay as healthy as you can before and during treatment, by:
- eating nourishing food
- drinking lots of water
- getting enough sleep
- balancing rest and physical activity
- if you smoke or vape, trying to quit.
Regular exercise and good nutrition can help reduce some of the side effects of chemotherapy.
Organise help at home
If 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 Gather My Crew.
Discuss your concerns
If 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.
Freeze some meals
You may not feel like cooking when having chemotherapy. Consider making some meals ahead of time and freezing them or have readyto-eat food available (e.g. tinned fruit, yoghurt, soup).
Talk to your employer
If 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.
See your dentist
It 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 effects
Talk 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.
Check other medicines
Let 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.