Cancer treatment often brings changes that go far beyond the diagnosis itself. From physical side effects to emotional shifts that can affect how you feel about your body, the experience can be challenging and deeply personal. Understanding what to expect and knowing what support is available can make the journey more manageable. Oncology Nurse Navigator Shelisa Cager explains some of the most common changes you can expect during treatment and highlights supportive options that can help you manage these changes while maintaining your well-being throughout your cancer journey. 

Common Physical Side Effects of Cancer Treatment 

Cancer treatments can affect the body in many ways, often within just a few weeks of starting therapy. Some of the most common side effects include: 

• Hair loss – Hair loss can be one of the most visible and emotionally challenging side effects. Although hair loss can occur with any treatment that affects hormonal levels, it is most common with chemotherapy. Because chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, hair follicles are usually affected. When hair grows back, it may differ in volume, texture or color. Programs like Look Good, Feel Better can support your confidence by offering guidance on wig selection and care and sharing creative ways to style scarves, turbans, and hats. 
• Skin sensitivity – Many treatments can increase skin sensitivity. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater is essential to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays and prevent further damage. 
• Fatigue – Fatigue is one of the most universal side effects of treatment. There are many different reasons you might experience fatigue, including pain, emotional changes, sleep disturbances, nutritional deficits, or changes in activity level. Treating these underlying conditions and focusing on exercise and diet are the main ways you can combat fatigue. 
• Sudden menopause – Chemotherapy can sometimes trigger sudden menopause by suppressing ovarian function and lowering your estrogen levels. When estrogen decreases, you can experience menopause-related symptoms. This experience can differ depending on your age; older patients often experience fewer or less severe symptoms compared to younger patients. 
• Weight fluctuations – Some women gain weight during treatment due to inactivity or steroids, which can lead to fluid retention. On the other hand, some women lose weight because changes in taste make food less appealing or because metabolic changes, such as a high tumor burden, increase calorie burning. Talking to a dietitian can help you determine what to eat, manage taste changes, and maintain proper nutrition throughout treatment. 

Cold Capping: A New Hair Loss Prevention Therapy 

Cold capping is a relatively new therapy designed to reduce hair loss during cancer treatments. It involves wearing a special cap filled with cold liquid or gel before, during, and after treatment. The cold temperature lowers blood flow to the scalp to protect hair follicles from chemotherapy drugs. There are two main types of cold caps: 

• Manual cold caps require changing the cap at regular intervals with the help of a trained assistant. While this option is generally more affordable, it is also more labor-intensive.  
• Mechanical cold caps, which must be properly fitted to your head, use a continuous cooling system that keeps the cap at a consistent temperature throughout the infusion. Talk with your oncology team to ensure machine-based cold caps are available during your infusion appointment. 

Although cold capping does not work for everyone, studies show that up to 80% of patients benefit, with many retaining more than half of their hair. Even women with more significant hair loss notice that hair regrowth happens more quickly after using the cold cap.  

Fertility Considerations 

Woman’s oncology nurse navigators can refer you to a fertility specialist who can explain available options and guide you on the timing of procedures if you are concerned about fertility. In some cases, you might need to coordinate decisions about fertility preservation with treatment schedules to avoid delaying therapy or affecting outcomes. Consulting with a specialist as early as possible ensures that you have expert guidance to make informed decisions about your future family planning.  

Rebuilding Confidence and Embracing Your Body 

Changes to your body during cancer treatment can affect how you look and how you view yourself, but they don’t define your worth or femininity. Rebuilding confidence can take time, and finding support is a crucial part of the process. Woman’s has several support groups that provide a safe space to navigate the changes, process your feelings, and share experiences with others who have faced similar challenges. No matter your age, stage of cancer, or point in treatment, support is available to you. Embracing your body, leaning on your community, and allowing yourself to heal can help you rediscover strength, self-expression, and confidence that feels uniquely yours. 

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