Guidance with BCG

I have recently had my third operation for bladder cancer (one a year for last three years) and the medical team are assessing if it is viable for me to have BCG.  I have no idea what to expect if this goes ahead.  I know that the doctor will discuss this with me but it is always helpful to get first hand knowledge.  Can anyone tell me what to expect, is this very invasive to your day to day life, will I be ill  (feeling sick, tired etc.) How long does the treatment last.   What questions should I ask the doctors?  I would appreciate any help and thank you very much in advance.

  • Hi Bardy,

    I'm sorry to read about what you've been going through in recent years. Unfortunately I'm unable to advise on your questions, however there is some information on BCG here which you may find useful to read.

    As you say, your doctor will discuss everything with you. Make a note of any questions you have prior to when you see your doctor, so that you remember to ask everything you want to.

    In the meantime, if you'd like to discuss anything with our nurses, you can reach them on freephone 0808 800 4040 (Monday-Friday, 9-5).

    Wishing you all the best.

    Ben

    Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Thank you for your reply.  I was hoping that someone who had experienced this procedure would have contacted me. 

    Doctors and nurses, although have delt with a lot of patients, have not actually experienced this and often filter information deciding what is best for the individual. 

    Being on a chat line takes away a lot of verbal emotion, therefore no information tends to be filtered and honest answers are given.

    I have read the information on BBC but would still like to, whether positive or negative, hear from any individuals who have been through this.