A new study by the Royal Women’s Hospital and the University of Melbourne has revealed that cancer survivors are twice as likely to experience severe menopausal symptoms, and Melbourne mum Anne Law said she couldn’t agree more.
Anne, 57, has gone through menopause twice: before and after breast cancer. The second time, she said, was harder.
“The first time I expected to go on hormones, and I did. My mum is 94 and she still needs them to control her hot flushes.”
When Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer she was taken off hormones and she said the hot flushes soon returned.
“That’s where the Menopause Clinic at the Women’s was so fantastic. It helped me find options to treat the severe symptoms.”
The study also found women who survive cancer, experience fewer psychological symptoms.
“Menopause can come at a time when the rest of your life is changing and the hot flushes are a constant reminder, which I think can cause depression in some women,” Anne said.
“(But) when you have survived breast cancer you have a new lease on life; you are happy to still be here. Why be depressed when every day counts?
“My family and friends have also been an invaluable support, especially my patient, caring husband Allan.”