How to Support Uterine Cancer Patients

Receiving a diagnosis of uterine cancer triggers a wide range of emotional responses. Individuals facing this disease must prepare for difficult decisions, a fair amount of physical pain and significant stress. Learning to support a loved one through this ordeal is one of the best ways you can contribute to her recovery and overall health. It's not easy, but with support and understanding, patients can heal and live a full, cancer-free life.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet connection
• Oncologist

Support Uterine Cancer Patients Before Treatment

1. Give extra attention and support to individuals who have recently received a uterine cancer diagnosis. The shock and emotional nature of this news requires a loving, open environment to fully process.
2. Talk through the various treatment options with your loved one. Resist the urge to offer your advice, but allow her to discuss the methods at length, as it will help her reach a conclusion she is completely sure about.
3. Find out additional questions she should ask her doctor, such as the stage of the cancer, the benefits and risk of different treatment options and how to protect the patient's fertility.

Support Uterine Cancer Patients During and After Treatment

4. Offer to take over some of your patient's responsibilities during the treatment process, such as childcare or house cleaning.
5. Take her to scheduled appointments and treatments. It will help tremendously to have a supportive friend along for the journey.
6. Encourage your friend or family member to take care of her physical and emotional states during and after treatment. A balanced diet and regular exercise will help her mind, body and spirit.
7. Attend a uterine cancer support group with the patient.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to ask your patient about her health and diagnosis. Many feel the urge to avoid the topic of cancer altogether, but it often helps the patient to discuss the process at length, rather than ignore the presence of this health issue.
• Encourage your loved one to seek professional therapy during this trying time. Talking about the stresses involved with uterine cancer can often aid in a more healthy, positive outlook.
• Help prevent your loved one from making rash, irrational decisions regarding their health. Advise her to always know her rights and to seek second opinions for any serious diagnosis.