Menopause and Cancer

01-05-2025
Menopause in cancer survivors is often triggered by treatments like chemo, radiation, or surgery, causing early symptoms. It impacts physical, emotional, and sexual health, requiring personalized care, non-hormonal therapies, and survivorship support.

Introduction

Menopause in Cancer Survivors: An Important Part of Recovery

Menopause in cancer survivors is a common side effect of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, or surgery. These interventions can damage the ovaries or suppress hormone production, leading to early or sudden menopause—even in younger women.

Unlike natural menopause, which develops gradually, treatment-induced menopause can be abrupt and more severe. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, mood changes, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and urinary issues. Decreased oestrogen can also lead to long-term effects like bone loss and a higher risk of osteoporosis.

These changes significantly impact quality of life, especially sexual and emotional wellbeing. Women may also face anxiety, depression, and body image concerns, making specialized care essential.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is often not suitable for survivors of hormone-sensitive cancers. In such cases, non-hormonal options—such as antidepressants, vaginal moisturizers, and new therapies like vaginal laser, radiofrequency, or oxygen treatments—can help manage symptoms.

Supportive care, including counselling, pelvic floor therapy, and survivorship programs, plays a vital role in recovery.

With tailored, multidisciplinary care, cancer survivors can manage menopause symptoms effectively and regain a sense of wellbeing and control in life after treatment.

Author

Dr Nabil Elmahdawi

Dr. Nabil Elmahdawi is a Senior Clinical Oncologist and expert in cancer care, aesthetics, and women's health, focusing on menopause and recovery after cancer treatment. He leads oncology services and co-founded eJoli Clinic.

Find Out More

Menopause in Cancer Survivors is a significant issue, as cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapies, can induce early menopause or accelerate the natural menopause process. This can bring about a range of physical and emotional challenges that require specialized care.

1. Causes of Menopause in Cancer Survivors:

  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can damage the ovaries and stop hormone production, leading to early menopause. This is especially common in women treated for breast cancer, lymphoma, or leukaemia.
  • Radiation Therapy: Radiation, especially when directed at the pelvic region (e.g., for cervical or uterine cancer or sometimes rectal or anal cancer), can lead to ovarian failure, causing menopause symptoms earlier than expected.
  • Hormonal Therapy: For hormone-sensitive cancers like breast or ovarian cancer, treatments like aromatase inhibitors or tamoxifen can suppress ovarian function and induce menopause.
  • Surgical Menopause: Women who undergo oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) as part of cancer treatment enter menopause immediately.