Premature Menopause

Menopause occurs in one of three ways:

• Naturally through aging

• Surgically through hysterectomy

• Chemically through chemotherapy

Chemically induced menopause is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Doctors often monitor breast cancer survivors who experience premature menopause by prescribing bone density tests and recommending supplemental vitamin D and calcium. They also counsel women about the benefits of moderate weight bearing exercise and the detrimental effects of cigarette smoking and alcohol on bone health.

Think your experience is uncommon? Want to speak with someone who has gone through a similar one? Call the Y-ME Hotline at 800-221-2141 and speak with a trained peer counselor who is a breast cancer survivor.

SOURCES:
Sproull, A. & Bruss, K. (Eds.). (2001). A breast cancer journey: Your personal guidebook. Atlanta: American Cancer Society.

Lange, V. 2002). Be a survivor: Your guide to breast cancer treatment (2nd ed.). Los Angeles: Lange Productions.

Love, S. M. (with Lindsey, K.). (2005). Dr. Susan Love’s breast book (3rd ed.). Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley.

November 2007