Menopause Caused by Cancer Treatment

Menopause is when your menstrual cycles (periods) end. This happens when your ovaries make lower levels of estrogen (sex hormone that helps keep the female reproductive going) or if the ovaries are removed.

Some cancer treatments can cause menopause. These include:

• Surgery to remove your ovaries.
• Chemotherapy.
• Radiation therapy.
• Hormonal therapy.
• Bone marrow/stem cell transplant.

Menopause caused by some cancer treatments can be temporary (short-term) or permanent (lifelong). It is hard to know if yours will be temporary or permanent, but your provider may be able to tell you what you can expect.

What symptoms can I expect from early menopause?

Symptoms of early menopause caused by cancer treatment can be more severe than when menopause happens naturally. Symptoms can be:

• Hot flashes (a sudden warm feeling with blushing).
• Night sweats.
• Mood swings.
• Vaginal dryness.
• Decrease in sexual desire (libido).
• Forgetfulness (lack of memory).
• Trouble sleeping.
• Fatigue.

If you have any of these symptoms, talk with your provider. There are treatments to help lessen these symptoms. Some of these treatments include hormones and some do not. Replacing estrogen or other hormones may not be safe for you. Talk with your provider if you are thinking about hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

How can I manage the symptoms?

Self-care actions can help lessen the symptoms of menopause. To lower the risk of side effects:

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, tight clothing, and cigarette smoke.
• Exercise daily.
• Lower stress as much as possible.
• Keep your mind active.
• Stay cool. Keep your bedroom cool at night, use fans, and wear light clothing in layers.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Use a water-based lubricant with sexual activity.

Talk with your provider before taking any medications, supplements, or herbs as these may affect your hormone levels and/or treatment.

When should I call my provider?

If symptoms are affecting your life and the self-care actions are not helping, talk with your provider about medications that may help.