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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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Most women will have no long-term complications after surgery for cancer of the cervix. However some women, in particular those who’ve had both surgery| and radiotherapy| or chemotherapy| and radiotherapy, are more likely to develop long-term complications of surgery.
Rarely women may have bladder or bowel problems after a hysterectomy| , because of damage to the nerves that control them during the surgery. To avoid these problems, surgeons try to not damage the nerves during surgery; this is known as nerve sparing or nerve-preserving surgery .
If the lymph nodes have been removed there is a risk of developing swelling (lymphoedema| ) in one or both legs. This is a build up of lymph fluid that can’t drain away normally because the glands have been removed. It’s more likely to happen if you’ve had radiotherapy to the pelvic area as well as surgery.
If you develop any problems after your surgery, let your surgeon or nurse know so that you can get the right kind of help.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.