Have you or others had a stem cell transplant?
Yes, many MyMyelomaTeam members have undergone stem cell transplants. One member shared their experience from 18 years ago, describing how procedures have evolved since then. They spent six weeks in isolation until their blood counts recovered, though nowadays some transplants Show Full Answer
Have you or others had a stem cell transplant?
Yes, many MyMyelomaTeam members have undergone stem cell transplants. One member shared their experience from 18 years ago, describing how procedures have evolved since then. They spent six weeks in isolation until their blood counts recovered, though nowadays some transplants are done on an outpatient basis.
Today, between 30 to 40 percent of people with myeloma undergo outpatient stem cell transplants with daily monitoring. However, most people are still admitted to the hospital for a two- to three-week stay during recovery.
What to expect:
The member described experiencing nausea and diarrhea, emphasizing the importance of asking for anti-nausea and anti-diarrhea medications. They also mentioned:
* Being on an antibacterial diet with canned fruits and vegetables
* Sleeping frequently during recovery
* Needing to avoid certain items that couldn't be sterilized
* Experiencing isolation challenges, especially being away from family
Recovery takes time—it can take six months to a year for your immune system to fully recover. You'll need various medications after transplant, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals.
While procedures have improved and become less restrictive than in the past, stem cell transplants remain an important part of treatment that has helped many people with myeloma live longer.
December 1, 2025
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