What causes early menopause after cancer treatment?

Chemotherapy can injure or deplete ovarian follicles, the structures involved in releasing eggs and making hormones. The likelihood and duration of menopause changes depend on the medicines used, treatment intensity, age, and ovarian function before treatment. Some people notice hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep changes, or mood changes. Periods may become irregular before stopping, and fertility can be affected even when symptoms are mild.

Tell your oncology team about cycle changes, hot flushes, vaginal symptoms, sleep disruption, or concerns about fertility before treatment starts or as soon as they appear. They can discuss hormone tests, fertility preservation when appropriate, non-hormonal symptom options, and whether menopausal hormone treatment is suitable for your cancer history. Lubricants or moisturisers may ease vaginal discomfort, while layered clothing, a cool bedroom, and regular movement can help some people manage flushes.

Contact your care team promptly for heavy or unexpected vaginal bleeding, severe pelvic pain, new breast symptoms, or symptoms that interfere with eating, sleeping, or daily activities. Seek urgent help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, or one-sided leg swelling. These symptoms need assessment and should not be assumed to be menopause.

Could my treatment affect ovarian function or fertility? Which symptoms should I report? What contraception is appropriate if periods become irregular? Which hormone or non-hormone treatments fit my cancer history? Would a fertility specialist or menopause specialist be helpful?