Breast cancer and menopause

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Hello I was diagnosed with HER2 + breast cancer in 2022 and completed my 6 cycles of initial chemotherapy which I didn’t tolerate at all well physically or mentally and then I had a further 12 cycles of Kadcyla (TDM1) which I tolerated a lot better physically but emotionally i still really struggled. I had 2 lumpectomies and a week of radiotherapy. I am now 9 months on and taking hormone therapy for another 3 years (I have been taking for 2 years) My oncologist did take me off these exemestane for 8 weeks due to my anxiety and depression but I have restarted as I know how important they are in preventing cancer n they he future. I have been struggling dreadfully with anxiety and depression which I am taking Trazadone anti depressants for. I thought the fatigue, low mods, insomnia and anxiety were all treatment and trauma related but I have been doing some research and I believe  they are only partly to blame and the biggest factor to these symptoms is Menopause related and I’m really struggling to cope. I am waiting for some more counselling but just wanted to ask if anyone else can identify with these symptoms and if you had any suggestions or tips. I would really appreciate and help and advice right now. Thank you Pray tone1 

  • I can relate to mood symptoms and menopause. I take CBD which helps but don’t think you can take with antidepressants. I also use the Stella menopause app. I find exercise, even a short walk outside helps a little. And I’m definitely worse if too much caffeine or sugary food. It’s all trial and error though and I have good and bad days. I hope you find something that works for you xx

  • Awww thank you that’s really helpful Slight smile I have just started CBD oil this week and I have noticed an improvement however I didn’t know about not taking it with ant depressant’s but I will continue n just see how it goes now I have started. I think I’m also going to start evening primrose oil this week. Il check out the Stella website too. Hope your recovery continues to get better x

  • Stella is an app and it’s been brilliant. I honestly find the anastrazole harder than the chemo, but know how important it is for lowering my recurrence risk. I joined a cancer fitness group too. Also been to a cooking day at my Macmillan centre which was great too. Would highly recommend and is surprising how these new small but social things can put a big smile on our faces xx