Our "pros" address issues that you might have or find the right specialist who can! Please note that "the pros" cannot give personal replies or medical advice--you should check with your regular health care provider for direction about your case. Please read our disclaimer.
Complementary and alternative medicine, often abbreviated as CAM, is a very general label that includes numerous approaches and modalities. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, an agency of the federal government, lists five types of CAM.
1. alternative medicine systems such as homeopathy and Chinese herbal medicine
2. mind-body interventions such as guided imagery, meditation and music therapy
3. biologic therapies such as nutritional supplements and herbal medicine
4. body-based manipulations such as massage and chiropractic, and
5. energy therapies such as reiki and therapeutic touch.
Because of increasing consumer interest in CAM, it has become an area of intense research interest. As studies are completed and reported, patients and their families will be gaining scientific information about any risks or benefits that can derive from these approaches. At this time, the medical community has only a beginning understanding of the impact, either positive or negative, of CAM approaches to cancer care.
Several reliable Web sites are available to help you learn more about CAM.
Thes sites are just a place to begin your investigation. There are many links to other helpful sites for you to follow.
If you are considering any CAM approaches to augment your treatment for gynecologic cancer, ALWAYS discuss the issue with your treating physician first.
The
"Answers from the Pros" are given in general terms, and are not intended
to address individual medical needs. "Answers from the Pros" does not
give medical advice, but answers medical questions that always should
be verified with your doctor and care team. Do not rely solely on the
answers you receive from the "Answers from the Pros" section. Do not make any changes
in your treatment or medications, without consulting your doctor. If you
have an emergency, call 911 or your physician.
What kinds of complementary therapies are available to women with gynecologic cancers?