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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

SCT or no SCT? I have to make a decision. What are your experiences and factors you weighed in making your decision.

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Mesa, AZ
January 6
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I had a SCT January 2025. I was very afraid to do it. My friends daughter had one at 19 for her blood cancer. She had one complication after another. This was 15 years ago. Things are very different now. Mine was totally outpatient, although I had to go in 7 days a week to be monitored. I stayed 7 weeks in Rochester, MN. My hematologist/oncologist recommended a SCT to stay in remission longer. It went so well. I had minimal side affects. I would do it again if I had to, but my doctor said the next step would be CAR-T or maybe something newer. I was in very good health prior to the SCT and recovered quickly. The hardest part for me was returning home and basically isolating from others for 100 days after.

January 6
MyMyelomaTeam

What factors should you consider when deciding whether to have a stem cell transplant (SCT)?

Deciding on an SCT is a significant choice. Here are key factors to weigh:

Treatment Goals
- What is your doctor hoping to achieve? Remission, maintaining remission, or slowing disease progression?
- How effective is SCT for your Show Full Answer

What factors should you consider when deciding whether to have a stem cell transplant (SCT)?

Deciding on an SCT is a significant choice. Here are key factors to weigh:

Treatment Goals:
- What is your doctor hoping to achieve? Remission, maintaining remission, or slowing disease progression?
- How effective is SCT for your specific situation?

Timing Considerations:
- How quickly do you need to decide?
- What happens if you delay treatment?
- Is this the right time in your treatment journey?

Practical Factors:
- SCT procedures have evolved—some are now done outpatient rather than requiring weeks of isolation
- You'll need to follow a strict schedule with closer monitoring
- Consider the impact on your daily life and family

Side Effects & Recovery:
- Common effects include nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue
- You'll need to follow special dietary restrictions and avoid infections during recovery
- Ask about medications to manage side effects

Questions to Ask Your Doctor:
- What are my other treatment options?
- What happens if SCT doesn't work—what's next?
- Can treatment be stopped if needed?

A MyMyelomaTeam member shared that it's important not to "burn through protocols or treatments" too quickly—keeping options available as long as possible matters in this marathon journey.

Consider discussing these factors thoroughly with your healthcare team to make the decision that aligns with your values and situation.

January 6

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