Early menopause after pelvic radiotherapy

Doctors often say early menopause is before 45.

Some symptoms of menopause are:

• hot flushes and sweats
• vaginal dryness
• passing urine more often
• lower sex drive
• sleep problems
• aches and pains
• mood swings and poor concentration.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) Back to top

You may be able to have HRT to replace the hormones your ovaries are no longer producing. It can improve some menopausal symptoms and protect your bones and heart. Early menopause can increase the risk of bone thinning (osteoporosis).

If you’ve had cervical or rectal cancer, there’s normally no reason why you shouldn’t take HRT. But some cancers, for example womb cancer, are dependent on hormones to grow, so your specialist may not advise HRT for you. If you have had early menopause because of pelvic radiotherapy, ask your cancer specialist if HRT is suitable for you. 

Managing menopausal symptoms Back to top

If HRT isn’t advised or if you don’t want to take it, there are different ways in which symptoms can be managed. If your symptoms are affecting your day-to-day life, ask your doctor about other medicines that may help with symptoms of the menopause.

Low doses of antidepressant drugs or a drug called clonidine (Catapres®, Dixarit®), used to control blood pressure, can reduce hot flushes and sweats. Some women find that using a slow, controlled breathing technique, yoga or acupuncture may help with flushes. Different lubricants or creams can be used to help reduce discomfort from vaginal dryness during sex|.

The Daisy Network| is a support organisation for women who have early menopause. 

What you can do

• Making lifestyle changes may help reduce some of your symptoms and improve your general health. 
• Eating healthily can make you feel better and give you more energy. Try to cut down on alcohol or caffeine, which can trigger a hot flush or affect sleep.
• If you smoke, try to stop as it can trigger hot flushes, weaken your bones and irritate your bladder. It’s also a major risk factor for cancer and other health problems.
• Keeping physically active helps keep your weight healthy, makes you feel better and helps you sleep better. It also strengthens your bones and protects your heart. There’s more information in our section on physical activity and cancer treatment.
• Yoga or meditation may help reduce stress and help with hot flushes.