Understanding Menopause After Cancer

By Lynsey, Oncology Dietitian & Founder of Flourish Cancer Nutrition

Menopause is often described as a natural transition — a gradual shift in hormones, symptoms, and life stage. But for many people affected by cancer, menopause doesn’t follow that script.

It can arrive suddenly. Unexpectedly. And at any age.

Why cancer treatment can trigger menopause

Certain cancer treatments — including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and surgery — can cause the ovaries to stop functioning, either temporarily or permanently. This leads to a drop in oestrogen and other hormones, triggering menopause.

Unlike age-related menopause, which typically unfolds over several years, treatment-induced menopause can feel abrupt. There’s often little warning, and symptoms may appear quickly and intensely.

Common symptoms after treatment

Menopause caused by cancer treatment can bring a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Hot flushes and night sweats

• Vaginal dryness and discomfort

• Mood changes and fatigue

• Sleep disruption

• Joint pain and changes in bone health

• Shifts in body composition and appetite

These symptoms can be confusing — especially if menopause wasn’t expected or discussed during treatment. Many people don’t realise what they’re experiencing is hormonal.

How Nutrition Can Help

Nutrition won’t reverse menopause, but it can offer comfort, stability, and support. At Flourish, we focus on practical, evidence-based strategies tailored to your needs.

Food and hydration tips to ease hot flushes

• Choose hydrating foods: cucumber, melon, soups, herbal teas

• Limit caffeine and alcohol if they worsen hot flushes

• Try smaller, frequent meals to support energy and digestion

  
  

Bone and Heart Health

• Include calcium-rich foods: dairy, fortified plant milks, leafy greens

• Ensure vitamin D intake through sunlight, supplements, or fortified foods

• Add heart-friendly fats: olive oil, nuts, seeds, oily fish

Gut and Hormonal Support

• Boost fibre: whole grains, pulses, fruits, vegetables

• Explore phytoestrogens (if appropriate): soy, flaxseed, chickpeas

• Support gut health with fermented foods and diverse plant intake

Emotional Eating and Body Trust

• Acknowledge changes in appetite, cravings, and comfort eating

• Avoid restrictive diets — focus on nourishment, not punishment

• Rebuild confidence with gentle, realistic goals

Nutrition won’t “fix” menopause — but it can offer comfort, stability, and a sense of control.

What We Wish More People Knew

• Menopause after cancer is common — and valid

• It can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender

• Support should be part of routine cancer care

• Nutrition is a powerful tool, but emotional support matters too

• You don’t have to “just get on with it”

Why this matters

Menopause after cancer is common — but often under-recognised. People may feel dismissed, confused, or unsure where to turn. That’s why World Menopause Month is an opportunity to raise awareness, share tools, and make space for every kind of menopause story.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, post-treatment, or years into recovery, support should be part of your

care — not an afterthought.

Flourish is here

We offer 1:1 consults, tailored resources, and workshops designed to help you feel informed, empowered, and included. Menopause after cancer deserves clarity, compassion, and practical support — and that’s exactly what we provide.

The information shared in this blog is intended for general education and support. It is not a substitute for personalised nutrition, dietetic, or medical advice. For guidance tailored to your individual health needs, please speak with your healthcare team.