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Women with medically induced menopause must not be left behind

Jean Hailes news 18 Oct 2024
A doctor taking notes while consulting with a patient

This World Menopause Month we're thrilled to announce a new partnership with Inherited Cancers Australia. We're teaming up to ensure women in Australia who are facing medically induced menopause are not overlooked in the national conversation about this critical health issue.

Together we’ll be highlighting the urgent need for better support and resources for women experiencing medically induced menopause due to cancer treatments or risk-reducing surgeries.

A recent national survey conducted by Inherited Cancers Australia revealed more than three-quarters (76%) of respondents who had undergone tube or ovary removal for cancer treatment or risk reduction had not accessed a menopause specialist, with many unaware that such support was available.

Sarah Powell, CEO of Inherited Cancers Australia, says the findings underscore a critical need in our healthcare system.

"Women undergoing cancer treatment or preventative surgeries face the additional challenge of sudden menopause, often without adequate support or information."

One survey participant reported: "I've never been referred to a menopause specialist (and I'm not sure I knew they existed) even though I'm nearing the end of my treatment and am very likely menopausal at 36."

In response to this identified need, Jean Hailes for Women's Health and Inherited Cancers Australia are launching the Medically Induced Menopause Support Project. This collaborative initiative aims to develop tailored resources and support systems for women experiencing treatment-induced menopause.

Jean Hailes CEO Dr Sarah White says that as more attention is paid to menopause in general, we must ensure that women experiencing medically induced menopause are not left behind.

"The unique needs of these women require specialised care and support. By offering a range of evidence-based options and support, we can ensure that no woman feels isolated in her journey through medically induced menopause."

About medically induced menopause

Medically induced menopause can be caused by:

  • chemotherapy
  • radiation therapy to the pelvic area
  • surgical removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy)
  • medical menopause where hormone production is shut down with medicine, such as Lupron or Zoladex.

Common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood changes. Women may also face increased long-term health risks, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

The project will include focus groups and a national survey to gather insights directly from affected women, with the data intended to inform the development of comprehensive resources and support strategies.

"While menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) can be beneficial for many women, it's not suitable for everyone, particularly some cancer survivors," explained Dr White.

"Our partnership aims to explore and provide support for all women facing medically induced menopause, regardless of their ability to use hormone therapy."

Inherited Cancers Australia also stresses the importance of individualised care.

“We encourage women experiencing medically induced menopause to consult with their healthcare providers about management options. These may include hormone replacement therapy when appropriate, or therapies such as lifestyle modifications and non-hormonal medications,” says Ms Powell.

Stay tuned to find out more about this exciting project. You can also explore our menopause web pages or visit the Inherited Cancers Australia website.

All rea­son­able steps have been tak­en to ensure the infor­ma­tion cre­at­ed by Jean Hailes Foun­da­tion, and pub­lished on this web­site is accu­rate as at the time of its creation. 

Last updated: 
23 October 2024
 | 
Last reviewed: 
31 October 2024