The Menopause and Cancer Podcast

In this honest and judgment-free conversation, Dani is joined by cancer survivors Emily and Anita to explore their relationship with alcohol after cancer and during menopause.Together, they talk openly about questioning drinking habits, attempts to moderate or stop altogether, the social shifts that come with drinking less, and the impact on identity and relationships.We know that no amount of alcohol is completely safe. Large studies show that alcohol increases the risk of at least seven different cancers, and it can also worsen menopause symptoms such as hot flushes, poor sleep, and anxiety. But this episode isn’t about shame or blame.It’s an invitation to reflect — gently and without judgement — on your own relationship with alcohol.Whether you drink occasionally, regularly, or not at all, this conversation creates space to pause and ask: Is this still serving me?Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro06:41 "Finding My People Alcohol-Free"13:20 "Alcohol-Free Holiday Journey"16:37 "Redefining Roles When Sober"24:34 "Sober Struggle with Moderation"26:37 "Authentic Connections Without Alcohol"30:26 Alcohol, Endometriosis, and Regret32:03 Alcohol, Cancer, and Self-Blame35:14 "Individual Choices in Health"41:06 "Sober Journey, New Experiences"These are the websites Anita and Emily mention:https://besober.co.uk/ and https://soberbutterfly.com/You can find Anita here https://yogaandsoundwithanita.co.uk/And Emily here https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-lunn-4931b3106/Connect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

In this episode of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Susanna Unsworth, GP and menopause specialist at the Cambridge breast unit, to talk about why menopause after cancer can sometimes feel like such a complex and at times controversial area of medicine.We explore why medical opinions can differ, why this space is not always black and white, and what happens when new research starts to challenge long-held assumptions.A big focus of this conversation is the PIONEER trial, a Cambridge-led study looking at whether megestrol acetate — a drug that acts on the progesterone receptor — could be used alongside standard anti-oestrogen treatment in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer and how it may also help with hot flushes!It’s a bit mind-blowing when you think that all we hear all the time is NO to any HORMONES after breast cancer!So we talk about why that finding has caught so much attention.We also talk about the very real emotional burden of endocrine therapy, the impact on quality of life, and why so many patients feel stuck between wanting to reduce recurrence risk and wanting to feel more like themselves again.Susanna also shares how the Cambridge breast unit is developing its menopause service, including group education sessions to help prepare patients earlier and improve access to support.This is a really thoughtful conversation about evidence, uncertainty, quality of life, and why people affected by cancer deserve honest, nuanced menopause care.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction04:49 "World Menopause & Cancer Day"06:21 GP Turned Women's Health Specialist09:44 "Menopause, Breast Cancer, and Controversies"13:29 Progesterone Trial Slows Cancer Growth17:13 Hormonal Interplay and Cancer Risk22:40 "Balancing Treatment Choices Carefully"26:46 "Menopause, Social Media, and HRT"32:05 Creating seminars to deliver information to more women About my guestDr Susanna Unsworth is a GP and menopause specialist working within the breast unit in Cambridge, supporting patients experiencing menopause symptoms after breast cancer treatment. She also works more broadly in women’s health and community gynaecology. You can find her here: You can find Susanna here https://cambridgewomenshealth.co.uk/aboutResources and linksThe Cambridge-led PIONEER trial article is here https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/hot-flush-treatment-has-anti-breast-cancer-activity-study-findsConnect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Today, we’re exploring the evidence with medical acupuncturist Maria Vega.Many cancer survivors experience menopause symptoms such as hot flushes, joint pain, insomnia and anxiety — often while navigating complex treatment plans or endocrine therapy. For some, HRT may not be an option, which leads many people to explore complementary approaches like acupuncture.But does acupuncture really work? And what does the research say?In this episode, I’m joined by Maria Vega, a medical acupuncturist who works in integrative oncology supporting people after cancer with a whole array of evidence-based strategies.We explore the evidence behind acupuncture for symptoms such as hot flushes, aromatase inhibitor–related joint pain, sleep disturbances and anxiety, while also discussing safety considerations and how acupuncture may fit into a broader, integrative approach to managing menopause after cancer.What is acupuncture and how does it work?The science behind acupuncture and menopause symptomsResearch on acupuncture for hot flushes and joint pain after cancerSafety considerations for cancer survivorsEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction05:42 Integrative Oncology Nurse Specialist07:52 Acupuncture: TCM and Western medical acupuncture12:25 "Acupuncture and Medications Evidence"16:02 "Improving Menopause Care Approach"17:49 "Managing Hot Flushes Effectively"24:50 "Acupuncture Safety in Oncology Treatment"27:53 Acupuncture Recognition in Oncology33:39 "Acupressure: Empowering Patient Self-Care"You can find Maria here https://holohealth.co.uk/This paper sums up the recommendations Maria speaks about:https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.22.01357Here is an open-source link as the ASCO paper requires a subscription.https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jicm.2024.0452Highlight from ASCO - SIO guidelines: Among adult patients, acupuncture should be recommended for aromatase inhibitor–related joint pain. Acupuncture or reflexology or acupressure may be recommended for general cancer pain or musculoskeletal pain. Connect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

On this episode of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, we’re marking Anal Cancer Awareness Day (21 March) by shining a light on a cancer that is often misunderstood, stigmatised, and rarely talked about.Anal cancer is caused by HPV, just like cervical cancer, yet it doesn’t receive the same awareness or open conversation. It might not feel as “pink” or as socially comfortable to talk about as breast cancer. It’s not a cancer that gets glossy campaigns or big awareness drives. There’s often stigma. There’s embarrassment. There’s silence.And that silence can leave people feeling incredibly alone.I’m joined by Ali, who shares her honest experience of being diagnosed with anal cancer; what treatment involved, the physical and emotional impact, and how it affected her confidence, menopause and sexual wellbeing.We also explore an important question: can treatment for anal cancer induce menopause?Pelvic radiotherapy and chemotherapy can affect ovarian function, sometimes triggering sudden or early menopause. We discuss what that means, and whether HRT or local oestrogen may be options.This episode is about inclusion.It’s about making sure everyone — regardless of cancer type — feels seen in menopause conversations.If you’ve ever felt that your cancer isn’t the “right” kind to talk about, this episode is for you.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction04:33 Cancer Diagnosis: Fear and Isolation12:15 "Stage 3 Cancer Challenges"14:32 "Breaking Stigma Around Cancer"23:22 "Menopause, HRT, and Cancer Journey"27:07 Burnout, Anxiety, and Menopause Journey30:36 "Pelvic Radiotherapy: Long-Term Impacts"36:01 "Barbie Butt: Finding Joy Amid Struggles"41:38 "Menopause, Cancer, and Support Gaps"About our guest Ali:Ali Stripling is a qualified Menopause Wellness Practitioner who was diagnosed with Stage 3 anal cancer in October 2024. She now speaks in workplaces about menopause, cancer and life in remission. Ali is also the author of #TweakAWeek, a practical framework helping perimenopausal women make positive changes without overwhelm. https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistripling/ Links:Macmillan Anal Cancer Support Forum: https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/anal-cancer-forumThe Farrah Fawcett Foundation https://thefarrahfawcettfoundation.org/This podcast episode was supported by an unrestricted grant from Incyte Biosciences. Incyte had no involvement in the development, content, or editorial review of the activities associated with this initiative.Connect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

One of the hardest things about fatigue after cancer is not knowing what’s causing it. Is it the lasting impact of cancer treatment? Is it menopause? Is it hormone therapy — or all of it together? For many people, it’s impossible to tease apart, and that uncertainty alone can be exhausting. And please don’t tell me to ‘do less’ to feel better!Fatigue is one of the most common and most misunderstood long-term effects of cancer and its treatment. Many people are told it’s “normal”, something they just have to live with. But for those experiencing it, this exhaustion can be overwhelming, persistent, and life-limiting.In this episode, Dani is joined by Dr. Jessa Landman, a leading naturopathic doctor specialising in integrative oncology. Together they unpack what cancer-related fatigue really is — and how menopause can intensify it further.Together, they explore why this fatigue is not the same as everyday tiredness, why rest alone often doesn’t help, and how hormonal changes, endocrine therapy, disrupted sleep, emotional load and identity loss can all layer on top of each other.This conversation is about validation, understanding, and practical ways forward!You can find more information about Dr Jessa Landman here:Website: https://drjessalandmann.com/Pre-order Jessa’s new Book: https://www.wiley.com/en-ca/Beyond+Cancer+Fatigue%3A+A+Path+to+Reclaiming+Energy-p-9781394381371You can find Dani’s Book ‘Navigating Menopause After Cancer’ here: https://amzn.eu/d/0d9bgNBUIt is now also available as an audiobook!Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro06:32 "Complementary Care for Cancer Recovery"12:19 Enduring Fatigue and Recovery Struggles15:31 Cancer Fatigue vs Exhaustion17:40 Understanding Individual Health Needs20:49 "Food and Lifestyle as Medicine"25:27 Sleep Issues Post-Cancer Treatment29:22 Muscle, Nutrition, and Energy Balance33:15 Exercise: Finding What Works36:26 "Menopause Fatigue and Herbal Remedies"42:07 "Wellness Foundations and Options"47:34 "Menopause Fatigue: 3P Strategies"Connect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Grief isn’t a ‘real menopause symptom’, I know, but… how can I host a podcast for people affected by cancer and not talk about grief!Grief isn’t only about losing someone we love. It can also mean the loss of fertility, the loss of identity when our bodies and sexuality feel unfamiliar, the loss of certainty about our future, or even the loss of trust in a body that feels changed by treatment. And grief comes up in most of our conversations!So in this episode, I am joined by therapeutic coach Henny Flynn to talk about it.Henny runs our Empowered Menopause After Cancer programs, and she is an incredible coach with so much wisdom and knowledge.Subscribe to our Menopause And Cancer newsletter: https://menopauseandcancer.aweb.page/p/4cfed538-bdea-4608-b0bf-d35f26bfa946If you want to learn more about how you can tackle some of your most stubborn menopause symptoms, get a copy of Dani’s book here: https://amzn.eu/d/bjU18OMOther Episodes with Henny:Ep 110 - Fierce and Practical Self-Compassion: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-110-fierce-and-practical-self-compassion/id1631842514?i=1000660975386Episode 162 - Beyond Being Strong: Self-Compassion and the Realities of Life After Cancer: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-162-beyond-being-strong-self-compassion-and/id1631842514?i=1000710207943Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro07:42 Empowered Menopause Support Gap18:17 Facing Grief with Compassion21:33 Survivor or Victim: Embracing Grief25:34 Navigating Grief and Uncertainty28:47 The Weight of Constant Grief35:04 "Walk, Talk, Heal Together"37:32 "Bravery and Self-Compassion"39:36 "Addressing Grief as Actionable"Connect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

What happens after active cancer treatment ends, when you’re sent on your way with hormone therapy such as tamoxifen or Aromatase Inhibitors and expected to just get on with life?I’m joined by oncologist Claire Macaulay, a breast oncologist whose work focuses on what happens when patients fall off what she powerfully describes as the “treatment conveyor belt.” We’re also joined by a whole group of people from our community who will inform how this session goes.Together we explore:When oncology appointments end, but the impact of hormone treatments on daily life is only just beginning.Why so many people struggle to stay on Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitorsHow side effects can impact quality of life, relationships, and sexual wellbeing, and why up to half of patients don’t complete their prescribed course.How to know the unique benefit for you of being on these treatmentsThis is a compassionate, practical conversation about treatment-induced menopause, being believed when side effects are severe, and how better support could help people stay on treatment without suffering in silence.Please leave us a review for the podcast - it means the world to usYou can also leave a review here: https://g.page/r/CY_ucIbbJqWMEAI/reviewDani’s book ‘Navigating Menopause After Cancer’ https://amzn.eu/d/0eYDBEtBlog post mention: https://menopauseandcancer.org/menopause-post-cancer-relief-from-hot-flushes-and-night-sweats/Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro11:48 "Managing Breast Cancer Recurrence Risk"18:12 Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Hormones25:09 "Balancing Cancer Treatment and Quality"31:46 Longevity, Menopause, and Health Concerns35:02 Menopause, Cancer, and Conflicting Advice42:40 "Diagnostic Holiday for Symptoms"48:52 Tamoxifen vs Aromatase: Bone Health51:26 "Managing Medication Washout Decisions"01:00:09 Managing Night Sweats and SleepConnect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

If you’re feeling low on motivation to start exercising or to keep up the good work, this episode is for you.In this episode, I’m joined by Christine. Christine is here to remind you that even when life changes overnight, strength, movement and hope can still be found.Christine had to relearn how to walk after cancer and then to relearn how to cycle. Just one month after lung surgery, she took part in Tour de 4, founded by Chris Hoy. She cycled 38 miles and raised over £10,000 for Cancer Research UK, as part of an event that raised more than £3 million for cancer charities. Amazing!In this conversation, we talk about finding motivation after life-altering treatment, using movement as medicine, and focusing on the here and now.If you’re inspired, join us for our BOOST30 challenge in March or for a fundraising event later in the year.JOIN BOOST30: https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/Boost30GET INVOLVED: https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/To sponsor Christine's next event, go here: https://gofund.me/16fe7fc67Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro06:06 Post-Cancer Recovery Challenges07:51 "Facing Cancer with Resilience"12:17 Thriving as Amputee and Survivor19:01 "Monumental Charity Event Experience"23:21 Adapting to Running with Prosthetics27:23 "Embracing Change, Winging It"28:30 Couch to 5K and Community33:13 Boost30 Challenge: Empower & SupportConnect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

If cancer treatment pushed you into menopause, you may be sitting there scratching your head, wondering what on earth is happening to your body, why no one warned you, and where you’re supposed to turn for support. That’s exactly where Holly found herself.In this episode of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, I’m joined by Holly Adcock, who first had vicious night sweats during chemotherapy and later came into our community through one of our in-person Menopause and Cancer workshops. Holly shares her lived experience of navigating menopause after cancer while facing complex and ongoing treatment decisions about her own care — a powerful reminder that menopause after cancer is rarely linear.Instead, it’s a wriggly road. One that often feels like an uphill hike, with twists, setbacks, and moments where you’re not quite sure which way to turn next.I hope this conversation will make you feel like someone is walking alongside you, hand in hand, reminding you that you are not broken, you are not failing — and you are not alone on this hike.If you are like me, then maybe putting one foot in front of the other is what is good for you too - below are the links to our walking challenges - come walk with me.The links are here:BOOST30: https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/Boost30GET INVOLVED: https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro07:05 Osteoporosis, Endocrine Therapy, and Cancer12:43 "Facing Chemotherapy Expectations"16:25 Understanding Menopause and Its Symptoms20:01 "Unheard Challenges of Menopause"23:32 "Revived by Friendship and Support"30:22 "Life-Changing Career Redirection"31:31 "Embracing Positivity Through Reframing"40:08 "Surgical Menopause Decision Struggle"Connect with Holly:https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/associate-holly-adcockConnect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub