Fatigue in Ovarian Cancer Treatment: Common and Manageable

Fatigue is very common during ovarian cancer treatment and can stem from the cancer itself, chemotherapy, targeted drugs, and other factors such as anemia, poor sleep, pain, or infection. ^{[1] [2]} Many people find that this type of tiredness feels different from normal fatigue and may not fully improve with rest alone. ^{[3] [4]}

Why Fatigue Happens

• Cancer and its treatments can directly cause fatigue, and the exact mix of reasons often varies between individuals. ^[1] Chemotherapy commonly lowers red blood cells (anemia), which reduces oxygen delivery and can lead to pronounced fatigue. ^[2] Targeted agents used in ovarian cancer, including PARP inhibitors, can also cause fatigue. ^[2]
• Cancer‑related fatigue tends to be more pervasive and longer‑lasting than everyday tiredness, and sleep may not resolve it. ^[5] It can start suddenly or build over time and range from mild to severe. ^[4]

What Fatigue Feels Like

People often describe heavy arms or legs, slowed thinking or movement, irritability, trouble focusing, and a reduced desire to do activities. ^[4] Some individuals feel too tired for basic tasks, and fatigue can persist for months after treatment. ^[3]

First Steps: Rule Out Treatable Causes

• Ask your care team to check for and treat reversible contributors such as anemia, infection, pain, sleep problems, or poor nutrition. ^[6] When a clear cause is found, addressing it (for example, treating anemia) can improve fatigue. ^[7]

Daily Strategies That Help

• Balance activity and rest: short, scheduled naps (about 15–20 minutes) can ease daytime fatigue while protecting nighttime sleep. ^[8] Plan your day to match energy peaks, take breaks before exhaustion, and avoid quick position changes that may cause dizziness. ^[9]
• Light exercise most days like walking or gentle cycling can increase energy, strength, and sleep quality while reducing pain and stress. ^[10] Find a routine that fits your changing energy and consider a physical or occupational therapist to tailor activities safely. ^[11]
• Set reasonable goals and let others help with tasks to conserve energy. ^[12] Make time for relaxation, and prioritize activities that matter most to you. ^[12]
• Eat well: aim for balanced, protein‑rich meals and adequate fluids; seek a dietitian if appetite is low or weight is dropping. ^[13]

Specific Tips for Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy

• If fatigue intensifies during certain drug cycles, talk with your team; dose adjustments or supportive medications may be options. ^[14] Be aware that intraperitoneal chemotherapy can produce more intense side effects, fatigue included, and may require closer monitoring. ^[2]
• For PARP inhibitors (like niraparib), use short naps, gentle daily exercise, and task prioritization; report any new or worsening symptoms promptly. ^[15]

Sleep and Stress

• Improving nighttime sleep helps daytime energy keep consistent bed and wake times, limit long naps, and create a calming pre‑sleep routine. ^[8] Relaxation techniques and light activity can reduce stress and anxiety that often amplify fatigue. ^[10]

When to Seek Medical Advice

• Contact your team if fatigue suddenly worsens, interferes with daily life despite pacing and exercise, or comes with fever, shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, or rapid weight loss. ^[6] Ongoing assessment allows your clinicians to adjust treatment or add supports to improve your quality of life. ^[7]

Bottom Line

Fatigue is extremely common during ovarian cancer treatment, but it can be managed through checking for treatable causes, structured rest, light regular exercise, nutrition support, sleep optimization, and teamwork with your clinicians. ^{[1] [2]} Most people benefit from a personalized plan that blends gentle activity with smart energy conservation and timely medical review. ^{[10] [7]}