An Introduction to Alternative Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Some people use alternative
ovarian cancer treatment to ease stress or to reduce side effects and symptoms of
ovarian cancer. In most cases, people combine alternative treatments with the standard treatments for ovarian cancer (for example, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy).
Types of Alternative Ovarian Cancer Treatment
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Herbal products
- Vitamins or special diets
- Visualization
- Meditation
- Spiritual healing.
Many people say that alternative ovarian cancer treatments help them feel better; however, some types of alternative treatments may interfere with standard treatments, and combining the two may even be harmful. It is important to note that some types of alternative ovarian cancer treatment options are expensive, and health insurance may not cover the cost.
Alternative Ovarian Cancer Treatment for Pain
Pain associated with ovarian cancer is a potential problem for people with the disease. Pain can be caused by a tumor that is pressing against nerves and other organs, or pain can be caused by ovarian cancer treatment itself. The patient's doctor or a specialist in pain control can relieve or reduce pain in several ways, which include:
- Pain medicine
- Radiation
- Nerve block.
The healthcare team may also suggest alternative ovarian cancer treatment for pain, such as massage, acupuncture, or acupressure. Relaxation techniques, such as listening to slow music or breathing slowly and comfortably, may also help to reduce pain in patients with ovarian cancer.
(Click Ovarian Cancer Pain for more information about how to treat pain that is associated with ovarian cancer.)
