https://www.uhn.ca/PrincessMargaret/PatientsFamilies/Specialized_Program_Services/Getting_Back_On_Track/Colorectal/Pages/colorectal.aspx
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​​Some cancer treatments can cause early menopause as a side effect. This is called ‘treatment-induced menopause’. In this case, menopause may be temporary or permanent. It depends on the type of cancer treatment you had, and other factors.

Some common symptoms of menopause;

  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats 
  • Problems sleeping, such as not being able to fall asleep 
  • Weight gain
  • Vaginal dryness or vaginal itching
  • Some loss of bladder control
  • More frequent bladder infections
  • Mood swings or getting easily irritated
  • Problems with memory and concentration

You may have all of these symptoms or only a few. Every woman is different.

 

Causes

Some surgeries to treat endometrial cancer can cause early menopause in pre-menopausal women. When menopause starts, estrogen levels start to decrease and vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy (shrinkage) may occur. 

Some types of chemotherapy may also cause a sudden loss of estrogen production from the ovaries. The loss of estrogen can cause:

  • Shrinking, thinning, and loss of elasticity of the vagina
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Hot flashes
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Mood swings
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability

 

What you can do

Speak to your oncologist or nurse at your follow-up appointments or call if your appointment is too far away. You can also speak to your family doctor.

Last reviewed: 1/4/2018
Last modified: 11/1/2023 6:32 AM
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