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Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is administered directly into the blood stream. During and after chemotherapy treatment scans and regular blood tests will be performed to assess your response to treatment and monitor any side affects you may experience.
Managing common side effects
Before starting chemotherapy, you may need to have a hearing test (audiogram) because chemotherapy can affect hearing, and a breathing test as some chemotherapy can reduce lung function. Chemotherapy may cause infertility which can be reversible, so you will be advised to store sperm (sperm banking) before commencing treatment. You will also be advised to avoid fathering a child for a period during and after chemotherapy. The effects of chemotherapy may last for some time after treatment from a few months to a year or more. You may feel tired or exhausted and this should be taken account when considering going back to work or if you have a busy lifestyle. Exercise may be difficult but, if possible, you should maintain this as much as possible. Loss of muscle strength can occur quite quickly if you are inactive – exercise helps prevent this.
When following radiotherapy or chemotherapy, your medical team will monitor your progress with regular hospital reviews, including scans and blood tests, to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
This chapter contains general information about treatment of advanced penile cancer. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.
Last updated: May 2025