HER2+ breast cancer and menopause

I’ve just completed chemotherapy and radiotherapy following surgery for stage 1 breast cancer that hasn’t spread to my lymph nodes. When I was diagnosed last year, I stopped taking HRT immediately and the hot flushes and joint pain I’ve experienced since is pretty bad. What supplements can I take to help with the menopause symptoms that don’t promote oestrogen? It’s a minefield and I don’t want a recurrence of my type of cancer again. I’d be grateful for advice.

I’m 56 and blood tests indicate I’m post menopausal. I’m confused as to why my symptoms are so bad. 

  • Hi LisaFx and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to learn that you recently went through treatment for breast cancer.

    For some women with breast cancer, who have been through menopause, the treatment may cause menopausal symptoms. This can be caused by hormone treatment or chemotherapy. Stopping HRT can also cause the symptoms to return.

    I don't know if you have seen this already, but we do have information on our website about breast cancer and menopausal symptoms, that has suggestions on how to manage them which you may find helpful to read here. This page has suggestions for supplements for hot flushes. There is also information on Breast Cancer Now, that may be helpful here.

    It may be worth having a chat with your breast cancer nurse (CNS), as they can advise you, especially as they will know your situation.

    I hope this is useful. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care, best wishes

    Jemma