Menopause after breast cancer

• April 26, 2024

There are women who experience menopause and his symptoms after recovering from breast cancer , this usually occurs when cancer is detected and patients discontinue hormone therapy (PHT) or in premenopausal women as a result of chemotherapy or ablation of the ovaries.

As the relationship between estrogen levels and predisposition to breast cancer is already known, patients and their doctors are discouraged and avoid selecting or recommending postmenopausal hormone therapy (PHT), also called hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for the support and relief of menopause symptoms.

In the past, doctors offered PHT to women after breast cancer treatment to counteract the severe symptoms of menopause since the initial studies showed no danger; however, the HABITS study found that women who suffered or suffer from breast cancer who take PHT They are more likely to develop recurrent cancer or develop new breast cancer compared to those who do not take these medications.

Patients should consult with their doctors about alternatives other than PHT to treat the symptoms of menopause. Some doctors suggest the phytoestrogens (substances similar to estrogens from certain plant sources, such as soy products) as an alternative. However, there is not enough information yet.

Some of the drugs without hormonal properties that can help to treat hot flashes, include the antidepressant venlafaxine; clonidine, for blood pressure, and the nerve medication called gabapentin.

With information of: American Cancer Society

Video Medicine: Adjuvant Hormonal Therapy for Estrogen Receptor Positive Early Stage Breast Cancer (April 2024).