Post chemo abdominal discomfort - adhesions

[Judek2177]

I am about two months post chemo for stage 4 ovarian cancer recurrence. I am told I am in remission. But now I have quite a lot of abdominal discomfort, sort of like menstrual cramps. Could this be due to adhesions? I did have a complete hysterectomy along with removal of appendix and some lymph nodes two years ago. I don’t really understand adhesions, what they are and what kind of discomfort/pain they can cause. Any information is appreciated.

[Cynthia18]

I'm sorry to hear of your reccurance and pain. I would bring it up to your dr.i had an incision hernia.i had to have it repaired with mesh.then there's the pain of scar tissue.please talk to your dr ask for tests.my prayers are with you my teal sister 💕

[delia2]

Hi. I’m 6 months out from chemo and have similar pains. I had pains at the bottom of my side ribs but a CT scan showed nothing and my CA 125 is 5 (though not s good marker). More recently I have pains where my tumor was and sometimes where period cramps would be. None of these is severe pain but I worry. I tell myself it’s adhesions. Maybe ask for a CA 125 test for peace of mind?

[Seasun36-uk]

Hi Jude,

Adhesions are little strands of tissue that grow after surgery. They may grow across from one internal organ to another and hurt when you move as they are formed from scar tissue. It isn’t flexible like normal tissue, it is quite ‘tight’ and doesn’t stretch. Sometimes you can see this on burns.

That’s my understanding, I don’t know if that helps? Lxx

[Perthgirl]

I had so much abdominal pain after chemo, took at least 15 months to return to almost normal. Good luck🌹

[Craftyclara]

Hi Jude2177 I had a TAH 3 years ago and still suffer abdominal pain just like period pain. I have scar tissue/adhesions and told that the pain is due to this. I also have an incisional hernia which needs the mesh repair and some of the pain is due to that to so it would be worth checking that out, especially if you have had chemo as I was told that slows the healing process. Good luck and sending lots of healing thoughts. In fact today I've just had my 6 monthly check up with my surgeon who gave me a good old going over and no concerns even though the abdominal pain is still there. Wishing you all the best. X

[Cynthia18]

Adhesions is inside scar tissue.