Oncology Related Early Menopause
Can cancer bring on menopause?
Menopause can be brought on early due to removal of ovaries, (oophorectomy), removal of uterus, (hysterectomy), side effect of chemotherapy drugs, hormone therapy or radiation therapy to the pelvis.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy, used to inhibit cancers, carry a substantial risk of ovarian toxicity causing infertility and menopause.
Tamoxifen is an anti oestrogen drug which is used to prevent oestrogen from attaching to breast cancer cells, making them grow.
The average age for menopause is 51-52 years of age.
Premature menopause is before 40 years of age. This is known as P.O.T, (premature ovarian insufficiency/failure). A loss of ovarian function before the age of 40.
Early menopause is before 45 years of age.
Chemotherapy and hormone therapy induced menopause is not always permanent, but can cause temporary menopause for 8-24 months.
What are the risks of premature and early menopause?
Loss of oestrogen at a younger age is associated with increased risks of various medical problems including:
- Neurological diseases, increase risk of Dementia and Parkinson's disease.
- Sexual dysfunction.
- Heart disease.
- Mood disorders including anxiety and depression.
- Osteoporosis.
What are the most common peri menopausal and menopausal symptoms?
Physical, Psychological & Social Changes Including:
- Hot Flushes
- Night Sweats
- Mood Swings
- Decreased Metabolism
- Weight Gain
- Abdominal Cramps & Bloating
- Joint & Headaches
- Muscle Fatigue & Pain
- Dry Itchy Skin and eyes
- Difficulty Breathing
- Pins & Needles
- Trouble Sleeping
- Exhaustion
- Unable To Concentrate
- Memory Loss
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Panic Attacks
- Depression
- Dizzyness
- Hair Loss
- Brittle Nails
- Pelvic Floor Weakness & Loss of Control
- Frequent Urination
- Loss of Interest in Sex
- Osteopenia or Osteoporosis
- Muscles Loss
- Fear of Cardiovascular Disease
- Grief
- Loss of Your Dreams
What can be done to manage peri menopausal and menopausal symptoms and reduce long term health impacts?
My 10 step strategy, researched, trialed and tested:
- 1. Weight Bearing Exercise- if possible high impact
- 2. Strength training
- 3. Cardiovascular Exercise
- 4. Plant based diet high in Soy protein & filling green cruciferous vegetables
- 5. 8-9 hours sleep each night with Yoga & Breathing techniques to assist
- 6. Core stability and PF control with Pilates exercises
- 7. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
- 8. Achieve Your Healthy Weight
- 9. Appropriate Vitamins & Supplements
- 10. Goal Set with Support to Ensure You Achieve
Related Terms:
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