Has anyone ever had a stem cell transplant, and how did it go?
Yes, many MyMyelomaTeam members have undergone stem cell transplants. Here's what the experience typically involves:
Before the Transplant
- You'll receive growth factor medications to move stem cells from your bone marrow into your blood
- Stem cells are Show Full Answer
Has anyone ever had a stem cell transplant, and how did it go?
Yes, many MyMyelomaTeam members have undergone stem cell transplants. Here's what the experience typically involves:
Before the Transplant:
- You'll receive growth factor medications to move stem cells from your bone marrow into your blood
- Stem cells are collected through a process similar to dialysis, where blood is drawn out, cells are gathered, and blood is returned to you
- This collection can take 1-3 days depending on how many cells are needed
- The cells are then frozen until transplant day
During the Transplant:
- You'll receive high-dose chemotherapy (often Melphalan) to wipe out existing cells
- The frozen stem cells are infused back into your body through an IV
- Chewing ice during the chemo and infusion helps prevent mouth sores
- Most people stay in the hospital for 2-3 weeks, though 30-40% have outpatient transplants with daily monitoring Common Side Effects:
- Nausea and diarrhea (ask for anti-nausea and anti-diarrhea medication)
- Fatigue and sleeping a lot
- Loss of appetite
- Fever, headaches, and skin rashes
- Hair loss if you still have any
Recovery:
A MyMyelomaTeam member shared that during their hospital stay, they followed a special antibacterial diet with no fresh fruits or vegetables unless they had hard, washable skins. Visitors had to wear gowns, gloves, and masks due to the weakened immune system.
Full immune system recovery takes 6 months to a year. You'll need various medications including antibiotics, antivirals, and possibly blood transfusions during recovery.
November 29, 2025
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