Breast cancer and menopausal symptoms

Last reviewed: January 2005

For general information about CancerBACUP’s Controversial topics please see the introductory page.

In breast cancer patients menopausal symptoms may result either from premature menopause occurring as an effect of chemotherapy, ovarian ablation by surgery or radiotherapy (oophorectomy or radiation menopause), or from use of hormonal drugs such as tamoxifen or goserilin (Zoladex). While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is effective in alleviating such symptoms, in view of the potential relative risks associated with HRT (both oestrogen only and combined oestrogen and progestogen) in women with a past history of breast cancer (1, 2) some patients may prefer other treatment strategies. This statement aims to provide up to date information on other strategies for the treatment of menopausal symptoms in women with a prior diagnosis of breast cancer.