Chemotherapy
At Birmingham Urology Centre, we offer chemotherapy as part of the treatment for certain urological cancers.
Chemotherapy uses special medicines to destroy cancer cells, helping to shrink tumours, prevent the spread of cancer, or reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery or radiotherapy.
Every patient is different, and your consultant will work closely with you to develop a personalised chemotherapy plan based on your type of cancer, overall health, and individual needs.
When chemotherapy is used
Chemotherapy can be used in different ways depending on your diagnosis and stage of cancer:
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Before surgery or radiotherapy (neoadjuvant chemotherapy)
To shrink the tumour and make treatment more effective. -
After surgery or radiotherapy (adjuvant chemotherapy)
To destroy any remaining cancer cells and lower the risk of the cancer coming back. -
For advanced or metastatic cancer
To control the spread of cancer, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Cancers that may be treated with chemotherapy include:
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Bladder cancer
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Prostate cancer (in certain cases)
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Kidney cancer (rarely, but sometimes alongside other treatments)
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Testicular cancer
How chemotherapy is given
Chemotherapy can be delivered in different ways depending on your individual treatment plan:
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Intravenous (IV) chemotherapy
The medicine is given directly into a vein, usually through a small drip in your hand or arm. -
Oral chemotherapy
Some chemotherapy medicines can be taken as tablets or capsules at home. -
Intravesical chemotherapy
For early-stage bladder cancer, chemotherapy can sometimes be delivered directly into the bladder through a catheter (known as intravesical therapy).
Chemotherapy is usually given in cycles, with periods of treatment followed by rest periods to allow your body to recover.
Your consultant will explain the exact schedule and what to expect before you start.
Possible side effects of chemotherapy
Modern chemotherapy treatments are much more manageable than in the past.
However, because chemotherapy can also affect healthy cells, some side effects are possible.
Common side effects include:
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Tiredness (fatigue)
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Feeling sick (nausea)
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Risk of infection (due to lower white blood cells)
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Hair thinning or loss (depending on the medicines used)
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Loss of appetite
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Changes to taste
Not everyone experiences all side effects, and many can be well controlled with medicines and supportive care.
Your team will monitor you closely throughout treatment and help you manage any symptoms.
Personalised support during chemotherapy
At Birmingham Urology Centre, we are committed to supporting you throughout your chemotherapy journey.
Your care team will include experienced consultants, specialist nurses, pharmacists and supportive care professionals.
We offer:
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Tailored treatment plans based on your health and cancer type
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Full information about your treatment and what to expect
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Monitoring throughout your chemotherapy cycles
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Access to supportive therapies if needed (e.g., anti-sickness medicines, nutritional support)
We aim to make your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Why choose Birmingham Urology Centre for chemotherapy?
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Expert consultants: Our urology and oncology specialists have years of experience managing chemotherapy for urology cancers.
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Personalised care: We design your chemotherapy plan around your individual needs and goals.
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Comprehensive support: Our team is here to help you at every stage of your treatment.
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Focus on quality of life: We aim to minimise side effects and support your well-being throughout your journey.
Get in touch
If you would like to find out more about chemotherapy treatment for urology cancers at Birmingham Urology Centre, please contact our friendly team.
We are here to answer your questions and help you feel confident about your care.
