Gastrointestinal symptoms are some of the most common and challenging aspects of gastrointestinal side effects during ovarian cancer treatment. From nausea and changes in appetite to bowel discomfort, these symptoms can affect daily life and emotional well-being.
In this Teal Talk episode, we hear from oncology nurse clinician and NOCC Board Member Tiffani Mickens, who breaks down why these effects happen, how to manage them, and when to contact your healthcare team. Together, we explore how understanding symptoms can help patients and caregivers feel more in control during treatment.
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Why do gastrointestinal side effects happen during treatment?
Many people do not realize the digestive system is often affected during cancer care. Treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or even supportive medications can impact both cancerous and healthy cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
On this topic, Tiffani explains:
“So everybody is different… some may have very mild symptoms, and some may have very extreme symptoms.”
This reflects the reality that no two patients respond the same way. The lining of the GI tract contains fast-growing cells that are especially sensitive to cancer therapies, which is why side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or constipation may occur.
According to cancer treatment experts, gastrointestinal complications such as constipation, bowel obstruction, and diarrhea are common in people with cancer because of the disease itself and the treatments used. These complications can significantly affect quality of life and require careful symptom management.
💡 What to know
Gastrointestinal complications like constipation and diarrhea are common in people undergoing cancer treatment because the intestines contain fast-growing cells vulnerable to treatment effects.
Looking for expert guidance on managing GI symptoms?
Watch this important discussion with gynecologic oncology and GI specialists who explain common digestive challenges during ovarian cancer treatment and recovery, and what to ask your care team.
Common GI symptoms that affect daily life
Most people undergoing cancer treatment experience GI symptoms that can interfere with daily activities.
For many, nausea and vomiting are especially disruptive. Tiffani notes:
“A lot of these cancer patients will experience that very severe nausea and it can become debilitating.”
Bowel habits often change as well. Constipation and diarrhea can occur alone or alternate, each causing discomfort and uncertainty.
“These patients can have both or they can have one more than the other.”
Loss of taste or changes in how food smells can further reduce appetite. Some foods may suddenly be unappealing—a common experience among patients.
💡 What to know
Taste and smell changes during treatment can reduce appetite and food intake. This is a well-documented phenomenon during chemotherapy and targeted therapy.
Not sure what questions to ask your doctor about GI side effects?
In this video, physicians from Northwell Health share the most important topics to discuss with your healthcare team when managing digestive symptoms during ovarian cancer treatment.
Managing symptoms and knowing when to seek help
Proactive symptom management is one of the most effective ways to stay ahead of GI discomfort.
As Tiffani explains:
“We definitely say stay ahead of the game… You don’t want that nausea to get to a point where it’s debilitating.”
Tracking symptoms, fluid intake, and bowel patterns daily can help both patients and providers. Pay close attention to anything that lasts longer than expected or steadily worsens.
Some symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. For example, severe vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, or signs of dehydration should prompt urgent contact with your care team.
💡 What to know
Bowel obstruction is a serious complication that may occur during or after cancer treatment. It can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal swelling, or inability to pass gas and requires urgent evaluation.
Bowel obstruction and ostomies: What to expect
One of the most serious gastrointestinal complications related to ovarian cancer is a bowel obstruction. This can result from tumor pressure, scar tissue after surgery, or inflammation.
According to research, bowel obstruction is a severe and common complication in advanced ovarian cancer, occurring in up to half of patients in some studies.
When obstruction occurs, symptoms may include bloating, nausea, vomiting, and changes in stool or gas patterns. In some cases, surgery is required. An ostomy may be created temporarily or permanently, depending on treatment goals and recovery.
Many patients adapt well to life with an ostomy, and support resources can help with care and confidence.
💡 What to know
Bowel obstruction occurs in a significant proportion of women with advanced ovarian cancer and can dramatically impact quality of life.
Looking for others who understand?
Explore NOCC survivor and caregiver support programs.
Conclusion
Gastrointestinal side effects during ovarian cancer treatment are common and often distressing, but there are ways to manage symptoms, protect your quality of life, and know when to seek help. Communication with your care team is key. You are not alone in this journey. With understanding, support, and early action, patients and caregivers can navigate these challenges with compassion and confidence.
What you can do right now
- Struggling to eat or maintain nutrition during treatment? Learn more about our free meal delivery program, which helps patients access nourishing meals when cooking feels overwhelming.
- Looking for nutrition support during treatment? Check out our nutrition for survivors playlist on YouTube.
- Feeling overwhelmed by symptoms? Join a survivor or caregiver peer support group.
Frequently asked questions about gastrointestinal side effects during ovarian cancer treatment
Are GI side effects normal during ovarian cancer treatment?
Yes. Many treatments can affect the digestive system, causing nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and taste changes.
When should I call my doctor about symptoms?
Contact your team if you can’t keep fluids down, have severe pain, or notice blood in stools.
What can help with constipation or diarrhea?
Your care team can suggest diet changes, medications, and hydration strategies.
Can bowel obstructions happen after treatment ends?
Yes. Obstructions may occur during or long after therapy and should always be evaluated quickly.
Is it possible to live well after an ostomy?
Yes. Many patients live full, active lives with ostomy care support.
