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Cramping and Spotting During Chemotherapy: Is This Normal?

Community Member

a year ago

Hi! Has anyone experienced cramping similar to period cramps and spotting during chemotherapy? I've just had my first neoadjuvant treatment today and was cramping during treatment and had spotting when it was done. I've just been diagnosed with triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma of the left breast two weeks ago. I've had all my scans, ultrasounds, lab work, and port placement surgery done over the past two weeks, which I believe took a toll on my body. Today, I started chemotherapy. The plan is to do six months of chemo and then tumor resection because it is quite large. My chemo treatment today consisted of the pre-meds (benadryl included in this) along with Keytruda, carboplatin and taxol. I've been experiencing really bad stomach cramping that feels like period cramps. These started about 2 hours into my infusion appointment. When I went to the bathroom before I left the infusion center, I had vaginal spotting with pinkish red blood. My period just finished 6 days ago. So, I don't think it's my period again. Has anyone ever experienced that? Thanks a ton for any info that anyone can share. I am 44 and no one in my family both sides have had cancer and I personally do not know anyone who has gone through this experience. So, I really do not have anyone I can ask about these things. Thanks

6 comments

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Accepted Answer

Many people experience unexpected side effects during their first chemotherapy treatment, and the symptoms you're describing can happen as your body adjusts to the medications. It's completely understandable to feel concerned when experiencing something new, especially when you're navigating this journey without family members who have been through similar experiences. This community is here to support you, and it would be helpful to mention these symptoms to your oncology team so they can provide proper guidance and monitor how you're responding to treatment.

3+ patients found this helpful

Community Member

6 months ago

I have not experienced cramping in my abdomen but have in me legs during chemo. I have exactly what you have and am about two weeks ahead of you in my treatment. Thinking of you and sending you all the love!!!

Community Member

6 months ago

Thank you so much, Natalie for the reply and sending love my way. I wish you the best as you navigate this journey -Waliya

Community Member

6 months ago

Hello my dear. I just completed my chemo including the red devil which gave me shortness of breath. I think you should discuss the cramping and sporting with your oncologist. I found out that people react differently to treatment. Be strong and positive. Pray that God will stay with you in this desert place. You will be alright.

Community Member

6 months ago

I had the mother and father of all periods after my first (EC) chemo and then they stopped altogether (I was 50).

Community Member

6 months ago

Yes! Me! My 1st treatment was on Tuesday the 12th. It had made me start my period 3 days early and I somewhat started on the 13th but really it was the 14th. My period cramps were so bad ugh. I had very little spotting at the end by the time my 2nd treatment. 2nd treatment Tuesday the 19th and I had cramps that day until Friday the 22nd and I finally stopped spotting on the 22nd. I told my oncologist about the period stuff but she didn't seem to concerned

Community Member

2 months ago

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Cramping and Spotting During Chemotherapy: Is This Normal?

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