The changes of menopause are the same as those that occur with a normal age related menopause. The issues regarding hormone replacement are also the same except as they relate to the tumor. The best source of information is a gynecologist. Because of the risk of osteoporosis we recommend a discussion with a gynecologist for all GI patients. The benefits in women must be balanced against the small risk of endometrial cancer induction. Breast cancer and endometrial cancer are different issues because of the hormone effects on the tumor. We do not see a lot of vaginal stenosis, and I believe the physicians are talking about the atrophy and coaptation of the vagina. The vaginal secretions are thicker and more tenacious after radiation, and when they dry they may cause the vaginal surfaces to adhere. When these synechiae are broken there may be some pain and a small amount of bleeding. A woman who has intercourse 3 times weekly is at very low risk for these synechiae, while a woman who is not sexually active should use a vaginal dilator with a water-soluble lubricant at least 3 times a week to prevent them. This is covered in an NCI(US) pamphlet for patients.