The Menopause and Cancer Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Walker, a coach and podcast host, but also my very dear friend who has helped me personally so much over the years. We talk about the power of friendship and support when navigating cancer and mental health challenges. We explore the emotional ups and downs of survivorship, the impact of anxiety and the role of friends.Takeaways from our conversation:Friendship can be a lifeline during tough times.How coaching can helpRedefining success after cancer to embracing vulnerabilityWhat it really means to be a supportive friend.Cancer affects mental health just as much as physical health.Sharing our stories helps us feel less alone.What’s wrong with ‘assumptions’This conversation is filled with wisdom, honesty, and hope. I can’t wait for you to listen!Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro05:26 Embracing Vulnerability and Openness08:35 "Prioritise Big Rocks First"14:42 Coaching Conversations: Navigating Health Decisions16:46 Supportive Friendships: Guidance Without Directing20:12 "Podcast Insights on Assumptions"31:14 "Reflections on Cancer and Recovery"33:40 Be the Friend You SeekListen to Rebecca’s podcast here https://headflex.co.uk/#83b77e94-775f-4144-ab1b-c69a481a6128 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

Want to regain strength after cancer treatment but don’t know where to start? In this episode, I speak with Sarah Newman, a cancer survivor who has turned her frustration and passion into becoming an exercise specialist for survivors. We’ll talk about how to begin strength training after cancer, what exercises are safe, and how to rebuild muscle after treatment. We cover:The best beginner strength exercises for cancer survivorsHow to prevent injury & ease into strength trainingThe benefits of weight training for bone health and menopauseHow heavy should your weights be?How to stay motivated in your fitness journeyAre heavier weights better than smaller weights and more repetitions?Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro03:36 Cancer Recovery Fitness Specialist Journey06:09 Exercise Challenges During Cancer Treatment15:15 "Strength Training Post-Cancer"23:26 Post-Cancer Mobility and Strength Guide27:54 Lymphedema: Wear Compression During Exercise32:50 Functional Exercises for Everyday Movement36:16 Weight Training Progression Guide39:44 Strength Training: 5 Key Principles42:52 Squat Variations for Leg Targets46:43 Post-Surgery Upper Body Exercises48:30 "Lunge Modifications for Joint Comfort"51:23 "Tea Time Workout Routine"If you're navigating menopause after cancer and want support, visit Menopause and Cancer for more resources.Connect to Sarah from Get Me Back here and sign up to her fantastic online program today https://www.getmeback.uk/ To follow Sarah on Instagram, go here https://www.instagram.com/getmebackuk/If you want to find out more of what the evidence of strength training and exercise says on cancer recurrence, watch our YouTube here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8WDtAM-lrg

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Rachel Frankenthal, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, whose work is transforming the lives of cancer survivors. Rachel specialises in gynaecological oncology at UCLA, supporting women through both cancer treatment and survivorship—particularly those navigating treatment-induced menopause.But Rachel’s story is anything but ordinary! From her early days as a Broadway performer to becoming a leading voice in survivorship care, she shares how her journey shaped her passion for holistic, patient-centred healthcare. She has played a pivotal role in developing UCLA’s Gynaecologic Cancer Survivorship Program and started a dedicated menopause clinic to support survivors in reclaiming their well-being.Join us as we discuss the power of integrative care, movement, and mindfulness, and how Rachel is changing the future of menopause support for cancer survivors. This conversation is full of wisdom, hope, and a reminder that the right care can change lives.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro05:27 Rachel’s Yoga Journey13:07 Comprehensive Patient Follow-Up Visits16:51 Post-Treatment Confusion and Anxiety20:15 Embracing a Healthcare Paradigm Shift23:13 Menopausal Symptoms in Cancer Survivors24:30 "Advocating Awareness in Cancer Care"29:09 Empowering Mid-Level Providers in Oncology31:42 Yoga Program Reduces Treatment Side Effects35:35 Community Healing Through Connection38:17 Normalising Post-Cancer Intimacy ChallengesFind Rachel here https://www.instagram.com/rachelfrankenthal/ Attached are resources: The British Gyn Cancer Society Guidelines https://thebms.org.uk/publications/bms-guidelines/management-of-menopausal-symptoms-following-treatment-of-gynaecological-cancer/- Here's the link to Rachel’s course "Hormone Therapy for Gyn Cancer Survivors": https://heatherhirschacademy.com/course/managing-hormone-therapy-for-gynecologic-cancer-survivors/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, I’m joined by Dr. Liz O’Riordan, a former breast cancer surgeon, three-time cancer survivor, and author of The Cancer Roadmap: Real Science to Guide Your Treatment Path. Liz shares the motivation behind her latest book, and the most common myths surrounding cancer, treatment, and menopause.We discuss the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis and evidence-based insights into controversial topics like diet, turmeric, juicing, alternative therapies, and HRT after cancer. We also talk about deodorants and clean skin care and I share with Liz why I can’t quite believe that ‘normal skincare’ including parabens and aluminium, make no difference. Liz also breaks down key misconceptions:“Menopause after cancer is the same as natural menopause.”“Now you’ve had cancer, you can’t just take HRT.”“Your menopause symptoms will settle down over time.”“If you’re young, your body will just bounce back.”“You should just be grateful you survived.”“Tamoxifen is just a little white pill—what’s the big deal?”"Sex and Intimacy Are Over After Cancer and Menopause”Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro10:19 Cancer: A Slow, Unseen Process17:24 Turmeric Supplements: Absorption Challenges20:10 Exposing the Juicing Myth25:15 Parabens: Safety in Skin Absorption31:50 Tamoxifen Side Effects35:21 Empowered Patients: Advocating for Change39:40 Struggle with Hormone Blocker Side Effects52:38 Understanding Your Motivations for Health ChoicesConnect 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 today’s episode, I’m joined by Melinda McDougall, a registered Medical Herbalist. Melinda has analysed hundreds of research papers on herbal medicine and menopause to uncover what truly works for some of our most bothersome menopause symptoms. Today, she brings that knowledge to us so that we can find out what considerations we have to make when also dealing with the complexities of a cancer diagnosis.What We Cover in This Episode:How Herbal Medicine Differs from SupplementsWhich Herbal Medicine works for Menopause Symptoms?Deep Dive into: Ashwagandha and Black Cohosh Considerations for oestrogen positive cancer patientsPhytoestrogens – Are They Safe?How to Find Quality Herbal ProductsSeeing a Medical Herbalist – What to ExpectWhy a Holistic Approach is KeyTune in now for a deep dive into the power of herbal medicine!Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro06:13 Understanding Menopause and Herbal Medicine07:52 Herbal Medicine Vs. Supplements16:14 Ashwagandha: Benefits and Uses18:43 "Herbal Medicine for Menopause Post-Cancer"22:00 "Finding a Qualified Herbalist"33:32 Phytoestrogens: Potential and Caution40:19 Research Limitations HighlightedConnect with Dani & Menopause and Cancer: menopauseandcancer.orgConnect with Melinda: melindamcdougall.comLinks mentioned in the episode:https://www.careopinion.org.uk/services/g507hhttps://nimh.org.uk/https://www.melindamcdougall.com/https://menopauseandcancer.org/herbal-medicine-for-menopause-after-cancer-current-research/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

Are your bones at risk after cancer treatment? Many cancer survivors experience bone loss due to treatments that affect hormones and bone density. In this episode, we break down what you need to know about osteoporosis, how to assess your risk, and the steps you can take to protect your bone health.Our expert guest, Dr. Olivia Hum, is a GP specialising in women’s and sexual health, an accredited British Menopause Society Menopause Specialist, and a member of the BMS Medical Advisory Council. She recently contributed to The Guardian on this topic—read the article here: Feel It in Your Bones: Taking the Pain Out of Osteoporosis.What we cover:How cancer treatments impact bone densityWhen to get a bone density scan (DEXA scan)Medical treatments available for osteoporosisHolistic approaches: diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustmentsEpisode Highlights:00:00 Intro.05:27 Early Menopause Affects Bone Density10:16 Aromatase Inhibitors: Risks and Guidelines15:15 DEXA Scan Waiting Times20:27 Vitamin D, Calcium, and NOG Guidelines24:20 Bisphosphonates: Managing Bone Loss27:32 Managing Medication34:50 Calcium and Exercise for Bone Health38:06 Building Stronger Bones with Weight Training41:37 Discussing Cancer Treatment's Impact on BonesResources & Links:Find Dr Hum here: https://www.mylahealth.co.uk/dr-olivia-humCalculate your fracture risk here https://frax.shef.ac.uk/FRAX/The Royal Society for Osteoporosis is here https://theros.org.uk/how-you-can-help/become-a-member/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAqrG9BhAVEiwAaPu5zpyb0-iN-8QxJX4Z6P-Ggq_KCAFHSIy_f4z88uBXsC9fxij4J1tJSBoCn38QAvD_BwENOGG Guidelines are here https://www.nogg.org.uk/If you're navigating menopause after cancer and want support, visit Menopause and Cancer for more resources.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

Navigating menopause after cancer treatment comes with unique challenges, and finding the right support can make all the difference. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Laura James, a board-certified naturopathic oncologist with over 20 years of experience in integrative cancer care. No one mentioned to Laura that her own medical treatment would stop her ovaries from functioning when she was a young woman of 26, so she knows what many of us experience. The total void of what it is to navigate menopause after cancer!Together, we explore:- What integrative medicine looks like in practice for cancer survivors experiencing menopause- How evidence-based therapies—like nutrition, botanical medicine, stress management, and lifestyle modifications—can ease menopause symptoms and enhance recovery- Practical steps for building a team that blends conventional treatment with integrative approaches- How to find trustworthy providers and navigate cost and insurance challenges- Tips for incorporating complementary therapies safely and effectivelyWhether you’re struggling with symptoms like hot flushes, joint pain, brain fog, or fatigue—or simply want to feel more in control of your care—this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed choices.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro03:20 Integrative Cancer Care Standardisation07:34 "Dealing with Chemical Menopause"14:24 Cancer: Preparing for the Storm17:35 Support Crucial in Cancer Journey22:52 Challenges in Herbal Medicine Efficacy 26:04 Naturopathic Oncology and Chemotherapy Integration29:15 Integrity-Focused Medical Practice36:06 Cancer Recovery and Positivity39:45 Simple Uplift: Joyful ResilienceHere are today’s links:The Menopause And Cancer podcast on YOUTUBE - subscribe here https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseandCancer?sub_confirmation=1Find Dr. James here https://www.laurajamesnd.com/ Dr. James specialises in helping patients build integrative medical teams that complement conventional cancer treatments while supporting overall well-being.If you find this episode helpful, please share it with someone who needs it and leave us a review—it helps us reach more people who could benefit from this conversation!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

Many of our listeners are on a quest to improve their menopause symptoms and overall health, trying this and trying that. But as we all know, making lasting lifestyle changes can be tough—especially after cancer treatment. In this conversation, we explore how to turn good intentions into real, lasting habits that will help improve your health, reduce the risk of recurrence, and manage menopause symptoms.I speak with Nienke Lees, a GP who is passionate about lifestyle medicine and helping her patients succeed. We discuss the power of SMART goals and the three essential components of behaviour change that can help you build healthier routines in your daily life. If you’ve ever struggled with making changes to your diet, exercise, or overall habits, this episode is for you.Key Topics Covered:The challenges of making lifestyle changes after cancer treatmentNobody teaches us HOW to make changesThe importance of lifestyle medicine in managing menopause symptomsHow to set SMART goals to create lasting habitsThe three components of successful behavior changeEpisode Highlights:00:00 Intro.06:07 Overcoming Barriers to Healthy Eating12:52 Fixed vs. Growth Mindset14:35 Building Confidence Through Lifestyle Changes18:17 Overcoming Small Anxieties20:23 Understanding and Changing Deep-Rooted Behaviours32:12 Make your goals SMART34:42 Habit Rewards Must Align with Goals41:23 Climbing Your Health Ladder44:18 Prioritise Impactful ChangesConnect 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 For more information on Dr. Nienke Lees, who is a medical doctor who offers health coaching alongside her work in the NHS, including a breast cancer recovery program, go here: https://www.thewholehealthmedic.co.uk/ or here on Instagram @thewholehealthmedic

In today’s conversation, I speak to Emily Lunn who shares her personal journey through breast cancer and the challenges she faced with surgical menopause. Emily managed to find strategies to ‘win over her menopause’ as she says and I am so excited to share her story with you.We also talk about feelings of low mood and suicidal thoughts and so please listen with caution if you are struggling at the moment. Emily came to one of our workshops last year and had little hope that what she would learn would be of benefit to her - but the day was the beginning of a wonderful new journey for her - Emily is one inspiring woman! This is a story of hope and resilience. Enjoy!Listen to Episode 147 with Julie Webb: Which diet helps ease menopause symptoms for more supportEpisode Highlights:00:00 Intro.11:18 Frustrations Over Medical Communication15:58 Coping with Unexpected Changes17:31 Medical Dismissal Ignites Distrust22:57 "Menopause: Unspoken Struggles"24:26 Struggling with Menopause symptoms and Life Quality28:14 Health Concerns After Blood Test30:38 Transforming Health: Food & Fitness Mindset35:45 Dieting and Health ChallengesConnect 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 joined by an extraordinary guest—Tatum, a true warrior who has faced and navigated menopause not once, not twice, but three times!Tatum has been a cancer survivor for over 10 years and shares with us what each menopause has brought with it: the challenges and lessons learned. Her invaluable insights, alongside realistic expectations and what she’s discovered along the way, leave us with one important message: You are not broken!This conversation is all about resilience, hope, and empowerment. And to honour Tatum’s journey, I’ll also be reading a special poem that reminds me of her.So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and join us for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with life lessons of a three-time menopause warrior. Let’s dive in!Other resources: During the conversation, I mention other helpful episodes. These are:Episode 143: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/854d55c1-8694-46be-98bc-4c2dc52ee20dEpisode 145: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/854d55c1-8694-46be-98bc-4c2dc52ee20dYou can find Tatum here https://www.instagram.com/tatum_de_roeck/?hl=enEpisode Highlights:00:00 Intro03:32 Chemotherapy-Induced Menopause Challenges08:37 Navigating Menopause: Embrace Personal Experience12:30 Emotional and Hormonal Turmoil19:04 Overcoming Self-Care Pressure20:55 Bridging Mind-Body Disconnect33:16 Embracing Imperfect Solutions After Cancer39:44 Reconnecting Through Sensory Experiences42:36 Vaginal Oestrogen Safe for Patients49:19 Cancer Recovery: Beyond Three Months51:55 Poem by Jeff FosterConnect 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

Welcome to today’s most practical podcast episode, where we’re diving into one of the most common and confusing questions for those navigating menopause after cancer: "How should I be eating?"We know how overwhelming it can be to understand what works best for your body after cancer treatment, especially when menopause throws in extra challenges. That’s why we’re thrilled to bring you this incredible workshop featuring Julie Webb, a leading nutritionist and expert in menopause and cancer nutrition.She’ll answer questions like:Can diet help improve menopause symptoms like anxiety, flushing, and fatigue?Is there a "menopause diet"?How can I eat to support my heart and bone health?Many women also join me in our community so you can learn from their stories as well.Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/how-to-prevent-cancer/https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/educational-hub/topic/calcium-calculatorHere is the protein document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1F2zH8EzadABROICxLNzI27J-RN8-l4jV1dXg0RqvsK0/edit?usp=sharing Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro. 14:15 Menopause Diet for Cancer Survivors17:40 Easy Ways to Eat More Vegetables27:37 Protein Intake for Health Balance34:09 Nut and Seed Fibre Content38:47 Protein and Calcium Intake Guidance45:56 Sugar Consumption Roller Coaster52:50 "Mindful Eating for Treats"56:50 Planning Positive Actions for Upcoming Months01:05:52 Small Steps for Diet SuccessConnect 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 today’s episode, Dr Zoe Schaedel shares with us how we can plan for better sleep. When you’re up in the middle of the night, unable to fall asleep, everything seems so much worse. Insomnia is very common in cancer patients and most people struggle unable to sleep for years after their initial diagosis even. Is that you? What you need, is a plan. You’d be surprised, this plan starts in the morning.We will discuss:How to get ready for a good night’s sleep first thing in the morning. How to signal to your body it’s time to sleepWhat to do when you’re lying awake at nightWhy when you eat matters?How breathing exercises can helpEvidence-based treatments for insomniaMelatonin, MagnesiumThis episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.Dr Zoe Schaedel is an NHS GP with expertise in menopause, sleep problems and cancer patients. She has founded Myla Health and is an accredited British Menopause Specialist.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro.06:23 Sleep Hygiene Alone Isn't Enough08:49 Experiencing Sleep Disruptions?17:05 Managing Hot Flushes for Better Sleep18:03 Improving Nighttime Wakefulness Habits23:55 Nighttime Thinking: Anxious and Uncontrolled25:52 Power of Breathing Exercises30:05 Overcoming Sleeplessness Strategies36:45 Managing Nighttime Anxiety and Options37:52 "Considering Sleeping Pills for Insomnia"46:06 Surviving Sleep Deprivation Tips51:46 Exploring Magnesium and CBD BenefitsConnect 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 today’s episode, Dr Angela Wright, a clinical sexologist trained in psychosexual therapy, will guide us through this intimate, interactive and thought-provoking episode on how to find pleasure and intimacy after cancer. “This has been one of the most valuable sessions I have attended after since my cancer treatment”, said a member who joined us at the end of the recording. Low libido, zero libido is a common side effect of cancer treatment and as we’re about to find out, most people feel very much alone with it. Before we dive in, we will also do a quick solutions workshop on all your solutions for hot flushes. We will discuss:Hot flushes treatment options - non-hormonalLow libido, no libido - what can we do to tackle it?I’ve not had sex in years and my partner really wants itWhat is mate-guarding?How to find pleasure and intimacy after cancer? Not having sex ruined my relationshipWhy no-one ever talks about it The expectations around our sex lifeThis episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro.07:58 Assessing HRT and Alternative Treatments21:10 New Drug Options for Symptoms22:51 Bio psychosocial Impact on Sex Life32:39 Rediscovering Pleasure Through "Pleasure Mapping"41:47 Pre-Cancer Journey & Sexual Exploration47:56 Addressing Intimacy Post-Diagnosis51:32 Adapted Intimacy for Post-Surgery Recovery54:50 Rethinking Sexy and Self-EsteemDr Angela Wright, a clinical sexologist trained in psychosexual therapy, is also a GP with expertise in menopause and cancer patients. She has co-founded Spiced Pear Health and is an accredited British Menopause Specialist.Book mentions:Managing Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: A Cognitive Behavioural Self-help Guide to the Menopause by Myra Hunter and Melanie Smith Mind the Gap by Dr Karen Gurney Better Sex Through Mindfulness by Lori A. Brottoa...

In today’s episode, Dr. Olivia Hum, a British Menopause Society expert, will guide us through expert solutions to manage joint aches and pains and what we can do to look after our bone health.We will also discuss:Holistic joint aches solutionsHow can I look after my bone health?What is a Dexa scan?How do I know my bones are at risk?Mental health supportQ&A - Dr. Hum answers your questionsThis episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.Dr Olivia Hum is an NHS GP with expertise in menopause and cancer patients. She has co-founded Myla Health and is an accredited British Menopause Specialist.Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro09:19 Osteoporosis Risk and Prevention13:10 Calcium and Exercise for Bone Health24:17 Menopause and Osteoporosis Risk Factors26:53 Boosting Fibre and Bone Health36:19 Oncologists' Strategies with Aromatase Inhibitors39:30 Managing Pain42:39 Codeine: Effects and Risks Explained01:06:32 Post-Cancer Menopause Health PlanConnect 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 today’s episode, Dr. Zoe Schaedel, a British Menopause Society expert, will guide us through your non-hormonal prescribable options for helping with your menopause symptoms. “What can your doctor prescribe if you can’t have HRT?”, I what we asked.We will also discuss:What can you expect from a menopause specialist?What alternatives are there to HRT?What medication can help for hot flushes, restless legs, low mood and other symptoms?Why the menopause symptom checker is crucial!Supplements & Magnesium - what’s the evidence?Q&A - Dr. Schaedel answers your questionsThis episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.Dr Zoe Schaedel is an NHS GP with expertise in menopause, sleep problems and cancer patients. She has founded Myla Health and is an accredited British Menopause Specialist.Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro.08:34 HRT considered for certain cancer history cases.11:32 SSRIs/SNRIs explained.16:38 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help you cope with symptoms.19:07 Vaginal oestrogen often used post-cancer treatment.25:10 Choosing treatments involves weighing personal concerns.30:23 Collaboration essential for deciding cancer treatment options.31:16 Consider lifestyle changes.36:43 Evaluate need for HRT; alternative methods exist.38:36 Prioritise shared decision-making.44:19 Supplements unregulated; difficult for doctors to recommend.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

Episode 142 - Exercise Solutions: What Really Works for Menopause SymptomsIn today’s episode, we will explore which type of exercise and which dose of exercise will help ease cancer treatment-induced symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, depression, insomnia and bone health.  In this episode, we are going to explore: what exercise can do for you.We are joined by Professor Anna Campbell and a whole group of the women in our community. Professor Campbell has published over 60 research papers and three academic book chapters in the field of exercise and cancer survivorship. In addition, she has also established the charity CanRehabTrust which links cancer patients to cancer exercise specialists. If you have any questions about how to exercise after cancer, Professor Campbell is the person to ask. Which type of exercise is best after cancer?How much should I exercise?Can exercise reduce my risk of recurrence?What are the guidelines?Here are the guidelines on exercise after cancer: https://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/exercise-guidelines-cancer-infographic.pdfThis episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro.04:56 Exploring exercise's impact on cancer treatment recovery.10:36 Pre-hab reduces complications and saves healthcare costs.19:20 Exercise aids recovery, improving quality of life.22:17 Diet/exercise prevents weight gain, improves health.24:20 Menopausal symptoms can worsen post-cancer.32:52 Regular exercise and stretching.35:03 Strength and endurance are both essential.38:52 Exercise 150 minutes weekly.48:33 Exercise post-diagnosis reduces cancer recurrence risk.51:20 Embrace new activities post-cancer for joy.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

Welcome to today’s episode where I want to sum up what numerous doctors have shared with me over the years. In this episode we are going to explore:why you are most likely experiencing challenges in getting the right help with your menopausal symptoms. We will go through all the symptoms associated with the menopause and why it might be confusing to know what’s what. Is it brain fog or is it still chemo brain? And I will share my flow chart of all your treatment options with you. This will give you an overview - of what’s in your menopause after cancer toolkit.In the upcoming episodes, I’ll be joined by experts who will help us dive deeper into these important topics. So stay tuned and embrace this journey of exploration. At the end, I’ll share how you can connect with a menopause specialist if you feel you need that extra support.This episode was recorded in the presence of our incredible community, and I’ll be sharing some of their valuable comments and reflections with you as well.Here’s to learning, growth, and feeling more supported together!Find your symptom checker here https://menopauseandcancer.org/menopause-and-cancer-symptom-checklist/This episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro.05:31 Community support is crucial for shared experiences.14:18 Anxiety common in menopause but manageable with help.22:35 Exploring menopause symptoms post-cancer diagnosis experiences.27:39 Assess HRT options with healthcare professional.36:27 Non-hormonal menopause treatments: options and antidepressants.42:11 Hormone therapy requires careful, personalised decision-making.47:20 Exercise reduces cancer recurrence risk by 30%.51:07 Access UK menopause resources for specialist care.59:47 Find experienced specialist for post-cancer menopause management.Connect with us:For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Welcome to this special Christmas Day episode of the Menopause and Cancer Podcast. For many of us—cancer survivors navigating treatment-induced menopause—this day might not feel like the picture-perfect celebration we see in movies or on social media. And that’s okay. In today’s episode, I want to turn celebrating on it’s head - and celebrate YOU. Let’s take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect on what it means to celebrate ourselves. Whether you’re feeling gratitude, exhaustion, or something in between, this is your gentle reminder that you are enough just as you are.What does “celebration” really mean on a day like today?Why it’s okay if today doesn’t feel joyful, and how we can find moments of peace.Reframing Christmas: turning the focus inward and celebrating your resilience, strength, and small wins.Wrapping yourself in warmth—literally and figuratively—and filling up your own cup.Make sure you are signed up to our Newsletter HEREEpisode Highlights:00:00 Celebrating quiet strength over hustle and tradition.05:03 Menopause post-cancer impact underestimated; needs support.07:36 What does celebration mean to you today?11:24 Feeling detached yet grateful during a family celebration.14:39 Celebrate yourself with affirmations and self-care.19:48 Disconnecting from the body impedes true enjoyment.21:53 Embrace being the proud, empowered, "difficult" woman.25:49 Celebration for you, unity, connections, and healing.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

This is perhaps the most important practice of 2024. By taking time out for yourself, you’ll be in awe of everything you’ve achieved and overcome this year – you’ll be in awe of yourself.I will guide you through a series of structured questions to help you reflect on the past year and begin looking ahead to the new year with purpose and intention. But don’t worry – we’re absolutely not here to set New Year’s resolutions. This is about something far more meaningful: discovering what truly matters to you and figuring out your priorities in a thoughtful and intentional way.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro07:13 Reflect on events from January 2024 onward.15:15 Reflect on key life areas: home, mind, and body.22:06 Reflect on personal growth, challenges, and achievements.29:13 Did you connect with and care for your body?40:41 Reflect on personal growth and supportive actions.55:54 Affirmations nurture self-care and self-acceptance.58:00 Place affirmations in daily spaces for positivity.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

Today’s 15-minute Yoga Nigra will help you ease anxiety.Welcome to the Menopause and Cancer Podcast Wellbeing Series where we share practical tools to help you heal and recover through and beyond cancer.In this series, we share practical tools to help you release anxiety, improve sleep, reduce stress, and feel more present—through many tools such as meditation and more, all brought to you by our community. Take a moment to relax and rejuvenate.Do not listen while driving. Meditation and mindful movement are powerful tools to support you. This is not a substitute for medical care. Consult a doctor or trusted health professional if needed.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro00:35 Yoga Nidra with Louisa RasmussenDr. Shelley Latte-Naor from MSKCC Cancer Center in NYC shares the evidence for the benefit of yoga nidra with us: there is some evidence supportive of the use of yoga in general and yoga nidra in particular both in the menopausal space as well as in cancer survivors. •   A recent review ( PMID: 37489597) synthesizing the evidence on Yoga Nidra and found benefits in reducing stress, improving mood, enhancing well-being, and improving sleep quality.•   At least two systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PMCID: PMC6980280 and PMCID: PMC6980280) yoga significantly improved hot flashes, total menopausal symptoms, sleep quality, anxiety, depressive symptoms, body mass index, and blood pressure.•   There is also plenty of research of the benefits of yoga with meditative techniques for cancer survivorship. For example large randomized controlled trial ( PMCID: PMC9990873) demonstrated that yoga significantly improved cancer-related fatigue (CRF), physical activity, and quality of life among cancer survivors. •   In addition to that there's also recent evidence both in the cancer population and in the general population that yoga can improve sleep quality (PMCID: PMC3757292) . Resources: Go to www.menopauseandcancer.org to join our expert-led workshops, programs and find oodles of inspiration.Recorded for you by Louisa Rasmussenwww.breathebalancebe.com Instagram @louisa.breathebalancebe