Early Menopause

Hi , Welcome to the group, although sorry you find yourself here! Sounds like you have been through the 'active' treatment and are now trying to cope with the hormone treatment! For some this is the easier bit, for others......

Life becomes very uncomfortable! What I will say is depending on what drugs you are on theres no guarantee that you have been pushed into the menopause! Obviously if you have had a hysterectomy or your ovaries shut down or removed then yes, but if your periods have stopped due to Chemo or Tamoxifen etc then theres always a chance they may start again.....believe me I was one of the hmmmmm unlucky ones!! 

However as for dealing with early menopause. Firstly buy as many pocket fans as you can, the circular ones that twist into a smaller circle to fit in your pocket are the best/easiest in my opinion! I have them placed in every pocket and every bag, so theres always one nearby! Also learn to relax, slow deep breaths. I have learnt the hard way that worrying about what others might be thinking and getting more and more worked up, prolongs the flush, so relaxation is the key however it doesn't stop them, sadly I haven't found the solution yet. Although others on here and in the real world keep telling me that they don't last forever but so far mine continue!! 

Actually one thing I did try that was successful for a while was a menopause magnet! Yes I know it sounds weird. But a small magnet placed in your underwear somehow stopped/reduced my hot flushes! But like some other things, it didn't last forever. However it did give me a few giggles along the way,,,,,,, sticking to shopping basket and picking up money as I lent across the table, to name a couple!!!

As for sleep mine has been on and off for years! Hence the reason I started the AWAKE thread, just over 3 years ago. Take a look, it might help you to fall asleep and if not it will at least give you a giggle! 

I know I have failed to give you any real solutions but I hope it helps to know you are not alone. There are many of us who struggle with the side effects of early menopause, although there are hundreds of thousands more who don't get any side effects or only get them for a short while. So please don't assume that this is forever, it could be a few weeks, months or years. But there are solutions to mist of the issues, it's just finding one that works for you!!

Just remember on those days when life is getting to you and you are just so fed up and feeling alone. We are all here for you!! 

Take care Hun. Maybe see you on the AWAKE thread! Sal xxx

Hi 

Have you tried acupuncture ir herbs? I go regularly to an acupuncturist and she's helped with chemo side effects inc early menopause. Mine has a good relationship with a herbalist - post chemo they created a tincture to help - given breast cancer / hormones, there are certain herbs to avoid, eg. Agnus cactus.

With supplements, might be worth seeing a dietitian if you don't fancy acupuncture. Omega 3 and a good probiotic are a good start, though you're probably well sussed on that.

I know it's all money. Acupuncture has really helped me, but I'm just one advocate. Cutting out caffeine (inc. Tea) I believe! helps, alongside the usual suspects: water, diet, exercise.

Prior to chemo I slept really well, so night sweats were tough initially. I got a lightweight natural duvet, and add and remove blankets throughout night, leaving my window open all night. The symptoms have waned somewhat for me. 

As LondonLass suggested, trying not to panic when you get a hot flush does make them easier. Wearing natural fabrics etc might help. I'm 41, and was as regular as clockwork, but am two months post chemo and no sign of return of cycle yet.

You will find ways to deal with it yourself, good luck with it all

Hi thanks so much for your advice. I actually changed my duvet after reading your message ( no idea why it didn't occur to me before!) Ill look for a magnet alright. 

Hi , thank you too for your message. I am totally open to acupuncture. I'll look into it. I had reflexology yesterday and taking time for me I think will be good as I'm otherwise busy with my 2 small kids. Take care

just wanted to pre warn you! I had a return of my periods 12 months after my last Chemo! It was a bit of a shock and not very pleasant, but I won’t go into details! It was just in time for my 40th Birthday! Not the type of gift I was hoping for! 
Just wanted you to know that Chemo doesn’t necessarily throw you into Early menopause!  Take Care. Sal xx