The purpose is to reduce the risk of recurrence or to prolong survival. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is chemotherapy given before surgery to reduce a large tumor to a size that is more surgically manageable.
Side effects experienced by the woman depend upon the specific drugs.
Therefore it is important that a woman check with her medical oncologist about the specific, short and long term side effects of the drugs being given to her. Fatigue Women who experience this will need to plan their activities accordingly. Hair loss Some drugs will cause hair to break at or near the skin. This may begin within a few days or weeks of treatment. Changes in menstrual cycles Menstrual periods may become irregular, or they may stop during the course of treatment.