I started chemo without a a port, and the chemo drugs were too harsh on my veins, each time, they had to look for an needle stick site below the damaged area, My fourth transfusion ended up going in by gravity drip- no pump because the vein was small and at the base of my thumb. I spent hours having the area rewrapped with warm towels in hopes of keeping the vein open. The doctor finally agreed to a port.
The port placement went without issues, all the rest of my infusions (every three weeks for a year) were done with the port, all my lab draws were done through the port- all without problems- and removal was easier than placement. I really have to look close for the scar, it has faded so evenly. Having done chemo both ways- I highly recommend the port!

I have a port, and it has worked out great. It feels a little tender each time it is used, but I have no other issues. My care team also advised that I put aspercreme on it 30 min before I head in for a treatment which will use the port. I am on a chemo regimen on TCHP once every three weeks. I also get fluids/steroids/anti-nausea meds via port twice the week of chemo and once the week afterward. I was afraid of the port surgery, but it went great and the area healed well. I also asked my doctor to put my port near my armpit rather than my collarbone, and when my arms are down, you cannot tell that I have a port; it is hidden in the skin fold of my arm 😃 (My oncologist recommended this to me.)

Although I did not like my port, I would never do chemo without it. So much safer, preserved my veins, less pain.

Just a note to add to my previous comment: the numbing cream is what I started with. Then tried the freez spray. I hate needles so much I wanted to try everything. Well, I've found out that at least for me, they were not needed. It all felt the same, with or without. Barely feel it. So for all you needlefobes out there, it's not bad at all! Go for it!

I had a port and couldn't imagine chemo without one. I also ended up getting iv fluids pottisum and magnesium weekly. They gave me emla. And covered with press and. seal one hr before treatment and no discomfort.