Radiotherapy (5 weeks)
If you haven't been through it yet and are worried, please don't. It sounds much worse than it is. The receptionists, nurses and radiographers are really lovely. It doesn't hurt. It doesn't take long. I was in and out within an hour or less. My boob was a bit itchy throughout the treatment and became redder as the treatment progressed. But it wasn't sore. I felt tired for about 30 minutes after the treatment. The first week after finishing radiotherapy, you could clearly see the area and a clear line where the radio was targeted, it was a bit bumpy but not blisters. From the beginning I put sorbelene on twice a day until my friend told me about Tallow cream, I alternated them at first but after a while just used tallow because I found the sorbelene made me more itchy. Second week after finishing; there where a few changes to my skin. It was the same as the after ejects of sun burn without feeling the burn. My skin turned a darker brown, then peeled back to a nice tan colour. I've had quite a few headaches since finishing radiotherapy but I get migraines anyway so it could just be normal for me. I wish you all the best throughout your journey with breast cancer. I hope I have helped to take some worry out of the whole experience. Think happy thoughts, love Becky
Acupuncture
Hi all, I've read a few of you mentioning acupuncture as a great natural approach to helping with menopausal symptoms and so I was wondering if people could share more with me? If anyone has recommendations for finding one that is trained to help that would be great too. I love Melbourne eastern suburbs if anyone has used one out here I'd love to hear about it
Newly diagnosed and Menopause
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.
Confused & Overwhelmed
Hi everyone I'm brand new & so overwhelmed. My nurse has passed on theses details & I'm looking to share my story, offer my support & hope my new sisters can help & guide me please. I've got a small 11 x 8mm cancer. Grade 2, invasive ductal, ER 95%, PR 95%, Her negative & I'm booked for surgery 24 October. I've been told to have the Mirena removed & stop all HRT immediately. I'm 57, fit & in good health. I'm in menopause & have been on my HRT for a bit over 12months. I'm currently on Ovestin three x week & Sandrena & Androfeme daily as well as having the Mirena. From all I've read I'm really concerned about stopping the HRT as I feel that the risks I will expose myself will outweigh any benefit. I also wasn't sure about stopping "cold turkey". If anyone can offer any info about this type of cancer & has continued with their HRT etc I would be extremely grateful. Thanks.
Coping with perimenopause and menopause .
I had idc 6 years ago ,I took tamoxifen for 6 years,I’m not taking now,had usual symptoms taking tamoxifen,but now I’m off it I’m in nature perimenopause I’d say as I’m 48 and have all the symptoms,obviously I can’t take hrt or I presume a lot of natural estrogen supplements, thinking of going to doctors as have terrible insomnia as well,just wondering if anyone has had anything that has helped? I do the usual recommended things,I exercise enough,eat well,feeling very down,which no sleep isn’t helping,currently trying melatonin,not sure it’s made much difference
Tamoxifen after Hysterectomy
Hi All, haven’t been on for a while but haven’t forgotten what a great source of support and advice you all are. I’m 3 years and 3 months out of treatment. - LS mastectomy and tamoxifen. I am due to have mitral valve replacement within the next few months but I’m unfortunately having to undergo a hysterectomy beforehand due to heavy periods (warfarin will not be my friend otherwise) I’m wondering if I’ll still need to take tamoxifen after my hysterectomy? ( I know I need to come off it prior to both surgeries) and … long term …. What are alternatives to HRT to prevent memory loss/ osteoporosis/ turning into a seething beeyatch? anyhoo. Lots of loves to all of you. Many thanks in advance for any enlightening comments you can give me ❤️❤️❤️ xxxSUFFERING STOPPING HORMONE TREATMENT FOR MENOPAUSE
Hi. Diagnosed two weeks ago yesterday, can’t believe it’s only been two weeks seems so much longer. Daughter is currently in the middle of HSC, so I haven’t told family yet, which sort of makes it seem like it’s not real. I’ve been reading a lot of posts and like a lot of women, I was blind sided getting a call back from Breast Screen Australia, even then thought, nah, not me. One out of twenty, my odds are good. I’ve been to the surgeon and McGrath nurse and now need to make a decision. It would be so much easier if I could get a good nights sleep. As the tumour is hormone positive, I’ve had to go off my happy gel (Estrogel). For the past week the night sweets are back. Anyone with the same dilemma? Any suggestions? TIA
Menopause - It's more than a hot flush! Recording available now
The recording of Menopause - It's more than a hot flush! webcast is now available here. We hope you find it both informative and enjoyable. Please feel free to share feedback, questions or thoughts below in the discussion. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ask the Expert: Menopause – It’s more than a hot flush! on Wednesday 6 December 2023. Many people experience changes to their sexual wellbeing associated with breast cancer treatment that can be caused by menopause or menopause-like symptoms. These can include vaginal dryness or discomfort, loss of libido (sex drive), changes to self-esteem and fatigue. Topics like these can often be difficult to discuss with your partner or health professional and it can be reassuring to know you are not alone. During this webcast, you will hear from Dr Tonia Mezzini, Sexual Health Physician based in Adelaide. Dr Mezzini is a leader in this area, with her level of expertise, she provides best practice and compassionate medical care. She presents in an open, informative and engaging way about sexual health and wellbeing. The webcast will be facilitated by BCNA Consumer Representative, Naveena Nekkalapudi. Following her diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer and the subsequent treatment, Naveena decided to re-evaluate her life and focus on matters that are important to her. She describes it as changing from being career ambitious to being life ambitious. Naveena is a consumer representative of BCNA, Cancer Council Victoria, Breast Cancer Trials, VCCC, and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research to name a few. This webcast will help to provide you with strategies to manage menopausal symptoms and discuss the support available to assist you with your sexual and emotional wellbeing.
Scared about hormone blocking treatment
Hi everyone, I am 40 years old and have 7 year old twins. I have just been diagnosed and positive for both oestrogen (80%) and progesterone (40%). I have been told I will have to take hormone blocking medication for at least 5 years and I may go into early menopause. I started researching and the list of potential side effects was just the straw that broke the camels back I think. The thought of it being such a long process and potentially never getting back to 'normal' really hit me. I am just wondering if anyone who has had to take these drugs might be willing to share their experience with me?