Newly diagnosed and Menopause

katesmom

Hello everyone,

My name is Kate, and I recently turned 48. Just a few weeks ago, my world shifted dramatically when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After discussing options with my doctor, I've decided to start chemotherapy soon. It’s all still a bit surreal, and I’m doing my best to stay positive and prepare for what’s ahead.

One thing I wasn’t expecting, though, is how menopause has shown up almost overnight. Hot flushes at night are waking me up, making it tough to get any solid sleep, and of course, that affects how I feel during the day, too. The timing couldn’t be more challenging! I’m trying to manage these menopause symptoms as naturally as possible since I’m not sure what my body will tolerate during chemo.

I started searching online for natural remedies, and there’s a lot of information out there – from herbs and supplements to lifestyle tips. But I’m nervous about adding anything new to my routine while preparing for chemo. Has anyone here faced a similar situation? Do you know if certain natural supplements for menopause might contradict chemotherapy?

Any advice, experiences, or insights would be really appreciated. I’m looking for safe ways to manage these symptoms, so any guidance on this journey would mean a lot.

Blossom1961

@katesmom Before cancer hit I managed ALL my ailments etc with natural supplements, then when cancer hit I found chemo made all my natural remedies useless.  Some of the natural remedies will also counteract the chemo. Look up mskcc.org where they have a huge list of natural remedies and what can or cannot be used with chemo. Stress and diet will reduce hot flushes but not rid you of them entirely. There are new drugs out that your Dr will be able to prescribe. Whilst on chemo accept whatever drugs the Oncologist offers so that you can be comfortable. You can go back on the natural stuff after treatment is over. Sleep and wellness are the most important factors right now. 

unicorn3

I’m 48 too, 47 when diagnosed and thrown into menopause with the chemo
ive found now that chemo and radiation is complete the symptoms are not so bad and have eased off.  I’m a bit stiff first thing in the morning but as soon as I get moving I’m fine. 

I take calcium, vitamin D and magnesium as well as my hormone blocker anastrozole. 

I use Panadol osteo occasionally if I’m extra sore but not every day 
sleep quality is definitely not what it used to be and I’m definitely more tired and need my morning coffee
being triple positive I’ve stayed right away from anything herbal as I don’t want to interfere with medications.  

I’m always busy running around with kids and stuff so that probably helps
i do try to eat healthy but doesn’t always happen 
Your oncologist will be able to prescribe something if you are really struggling
Best wishes 

Aska

I found that accupuncture keeps my hot flushes away,  as long as I go every 3 to 4 weeks

kezmusc

Hi @katesmom.

Eeek.  I was 45 when chemo shut everything down after the second dose. The flushes were atomic.  So disgusting. That was the hardest slog of the trip I reckon. 

 The really shitty thing is there's really not much you can take to help.  Nobody does studies on natural medication v breast cancer as they're classed under the "food act"  but the pharmacy will tell you not to take anything with phyto oestrogens in it. So no Rasberry leaf, no Black Cohosh,  no Menopause Ease or things like that.  Not that they actually know.  But I made the pharmacy ring Swisse and they said not to take "just in case" Blah

 I used to carry a can of dove deodarant (just the original not scented) every where and spray like heck as soon as I felt a flush coming on.  Also had a cold towel that I wet, put in the freezer and slept with draped accross my back. 

On a plus note you can now apply topical oestrogen creams to the more sensitive bits that hurt. After 7 years of me asking they finally agreed it's ok now.

 I also found a lot of vitamin B helped a bit and also helped with the brain fog (I am not a recommending that as I became my own science experiment really.
All the best lovely.  xoxoxo

cranky_granny

Hi @katesmom
heres a link to a new treatment for the hot flushes
https://www.breastcancer.org/research-news/oxybutynin-helps-ease-hot-flashes

If you type into the search 🔍 at the top eg hot flushes or menopause past discussions will come up use  most recent one as some can be older ones that could be outdated. We have a link to a recording it will probably come up in a search. 

Its Menopause more than a hot flush it was back in  Dec 2023 
check with your oncologist if its one you can have

kiwisandy

Hi @katesmom
Ive finished my second round of chemo and have just started to feel the effects of menopause. One night of heat waves like you wouldn’t believe! As I’ve only got four more chemo sessions (fingers crossed) left before surgery and radiation, I’m just going to ride it out and try manage the symptoms as they arrive.
I’m an emotional mess which I’m not sure is just a side effect from the cancer roller coaster or from menopause.

Take care of you, arm yourself with as much info as you can to make your “ride” as easy for you as possible.

All the best