Many women tell us that they are interested in complementary therapies and medicines. There are many different types of complementary therapies and medicines, and the information that is available can sometimes be confusing. We hope the following will help you to understand what is available to you.
Complementary therapies
Complementary therapies are practices that are used in addition to conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapies. Some examples of complementary therapies often used by women with breast cancer include massage, yoga, acupuncture and reflexology.
For more information see the Complementary therapies page.
Complementary medicines
Complementary medicines are products that are used in addition to conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapies. Complementary medicines include vitamin and mineral supplements, such as fish oil capsules or vitamin D tablets, and herbal medicines.
For more information see the Complementary medicines page.
Alternative therapies
Alternative therapies are products or therapies that are used instead of conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapies. Some examples of alternative therapies are ozone therapy, special diets, coffee enemas, large doses of vitamins and herbal treatments. Alternative therapies have not been scientifically tested or proven and there is no evidence that they are effective in treating breast cancer, although they are often marketed as being a 'cure' for cancer. They are often very expensive, and may cost many thousands of dollars.
For more information see the Alternative therapies page.
