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December 27, 2025
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A MyBCTeam Member

I started chemo without the port, and the drugs were too harsh on my veins, so the port was installed- my labs were low from the chemo so my outpatient surgery was cancelled- and moved to the hospital so I could get platelet infusions, then more labs, and surgery at the hospital. It was really sore, so I used Tylenol and ice packs, on and off for a few seconds at a time between doses. It took a few days of that before I felt like I was finally turning a corner on the healing. It didn't help that I had chemo the morning after the port installation. That may have played a part in how sore it was. But having done chemo both ways- the port made everything so much easier (I am a hard stick anyway!).

Is there something more than discomfort that has you worried? Hugs!

December 27, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

I never needed it and it was removed a year ago. I have scar tissue soreness sometimes when picking or lifting things I should not.

December 29, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

My first port was installed incorrectly and developed a kink that caused it to leak. The initial x ray showed a break so I needed emergency surgery- on day 1 of chemo! After removal and recovery period a more competent surgeon installed a second one correctly. The only problem I had was bruising and occasional annoying pains. Surgeon and oncologist said they were due to port settlement. After about 6 weeks it all went away. Don’t even think about it now.
Wishing you much success in your journey!💕💕

December 27, 2025
MyBCTeam

Did anyone have problems or side effects with their port for chemo?

Yes, some people experience side effects with their chemo port, though many find the benefits outweigh any discomfort.

Common side effects after port placement include:

- Bruising, drainage, redness, and swelling at the insertion site
- Neck pain
- Show Full Answer

Did anyone have problems or side effects with their port for chemo?

Yes, some people experience side effects with their chemo port, though many find the benefits outweigh any discomfort.

Common side effects after port placement include:

- Bruising, drainage, redness, and swelling at the insertion site
- Neck pain
- Soreness that typically improves after a day or two
- Minor bleeding

A MyBCTeam member shared: "No one had told me it was going to hurt, and I wasn't prepared for that." Another noted, "It doesn't hurt except if you hit it."

Long-term considerations:

Some people experience continued soreness when direct pressure is placed on the port. Lying flat on your chest or having something lean against it may cause discomfort.

Rare but serious complications to watch for:

- Infection (call your oncologist if you develop fever, chills, or skin changes around the port)
- Port blockage or damage
- Leaking (if tubing disconnects from the port)
- Nerve damage in rare cases

Most members found these issues manageable. One member advised using ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen for initial discomfort.

Despite potential side effects, many members feel the port is worth it. As one shared: "I can't imagine doing chemo without a port."

December 27, 2025

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