Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapies can abruptly trigger menopause, particularly in younger women, due to their impact on ovarian function. Known within the cancer community as “chemopause,” this sudden shift is the result of ovarian damage, causing an immediate stop in oestrogen production, which disrupts menstrual cycles and accelerates menopausal symptoms.

In cancer-induced menopause, the body doesn’t gradually transition to lower hormone levels. Instead, estrogen levels plummet, bringing intense symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and significant mood changes. This sharp decline often means symptoms hit harder than in natural menopause, adding to the challenges already posed by cancer recovery. For many women, this sudden change can feel overwhelming, as they experience cognitive issues like “brain fog,” emotional volatility, and sleep disruptions.

Oestrogen replacement, a common relief for menopause symptoms, is typically not advised for individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers (like breast cancer) due to the risk of promoting cancer growth. Non-hormonal therapies are often recommended instead, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acupuncture, or specific medications that alleviate hot flushes and mood swings without introducing oestrogen into the body.

For some women, treatment-induced menopause may be temporary, especially if they were younger at diagnosis. However, for others, particularly those closer to the natural age of menopause, the changes may be permanent. Cancer survivors in early menopause are advised to consider long-term health implications, such as bone density and cardiovascular health, given the early cessation of oestrogen​

Navigating cancer-induced menopause can be challenging, but support is available to help manage the emotional and physical toll.

Gentle Counselling offers a dedicated CBT for Menopause course designed to address the unique mental and emotional impacts associated with this transition. Whether through tailored CBT techniques or simply having a compassionate conversation with Amy at Gentle Counselling can provide tools to help manage these symptoms effectively.

This support can be an essential resource in coping with the daily realities of this experience, providing both understanding and practical strategies to ease the journey.

Thank you, Amy