Side-effects

Having a stem cell transplant can have a long-term effect on your health and wellbeing, even after many years. Your medical team can monitor your progress in yearly check-ups, but it’s good to be aware of potential problems. On this page, we explain the late-stage side effects to look out for.

Our immune systems contain types of white blood cells called lymphocytes – these cells fight infection. But after a stem cell transplant, some people might need a ‘top-up’ of lymphocytes. On this page, we explain how the procedure works and why you might need it.

We all have different experiences of recovery. Some of us might need to visit the hospital more often, or for a much longer time than others. On this page, we look at how each stage of recovery might relate to hospital appointments and visits.

One of the most common side effects after a stem cell transplant is infection. It is an expected part of recovery but can also be challenging.

Fatigue can be a short-term effect that improves after a few months, but some patients still experience it more than a year after their transplant.

Within a few weeks or months after your stem cell transplant, you might experience some side effects which will improve naturally or with medication. On this page, we explore the possible side effects on your body in the earlier stages of recovery.

During the first few weeks of your recovery, while still in hospital, you’re likely to experience some side effects from your treatment. On this page, we explain some of the side effects and their possible treatments.

Your stem cell transplant normally happens the day after your conditioning therapy has finished. Many people call this ‘day zero’. On this page, we’ll go through every step of the process so you know what to expect on transplant day.

Before your stem cell transplant can happen, you’ll need to stay in hospital for treatment known as ‘conditioning therapy’. On this page we’ll explain the different types of conditioning therapy you might experience.

You will have a few medical appointments before your stem cell transplant. On this page, we'll explain what they can involve.