What to expect from chemotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer

Chemotherapy may be recommended before surgery to shrink the tumour and show how it responds, or after surgery to reduce the chance of remaining cancer cells. Your oncologist will choose medicines and timing based on tumour features, scans, lymph-node findings, and your health. Infusions are given on treatment days followed by recovery time; appointments may include blood tests and a review of symptoms before each cycle.

Tiredness, nausea, hair loss, appetite changes, mouth soreness, constipation or diarrhoea, and changes in blood counts are possible. Some people notice tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Tell the team about symptoms early; doses, timing, and supportive medicines can sometimes be adjusted.

Bring a current medicine list and arrange a reliable way home after infusions if you feel drowsy or unwell. Keep easy meals available, drink as advised, wash hands regularly, and protect your mouth and skin gently. If pregnancy is possible, discuss contraception and fertility before treatment. Ask before taking supplements, vaccinations, or over-the-counter medicines.

Call promptly for fever or chills, breathing trouble, chest pain, severe weakness, persistent vomiting, severe diarrhoea, unusual bleeding, or inability to drink. A new rash with swelling of the face or throat during or after an infusion needs immediate help. Report numbness that affects walking or handling objects, because early assessment may prevent worsening nerve problems.

Ask why chemotherapy is recommended before or after surgery, how response will be checked, which side effects are expected with your medicines, what symptoms require same-day advice, and whether fertility or genetic counselling should be discussed.