This week’s episode is a special collaboration with the brilliant team from Rad Chat; the multi-award-winning, first therapeutic radiographer–led oncology podcast. And they’re with us on the show today!

Naman Julka-Anderson and Jo McNamara bring decades of frontline cancer experience, and in this joint conversation we explore menopause after cancer from both the patient and clinician perspective.

Together, we discuss:

• Why menopause after cancer is so often overlooked in oncology
• What clinicians are seeing in their day-to-day practice
• How communication can improve so patients feel heard, supported and safe
• What needs to change for future generations

If you’ve ever wished your oncology team better understood the impact of treatment-induced menopause, this episode is full of “finally, someone is saying this out loud” moments. 

You’ll love this one!

A huge thank you to Naman and Jo for collaborating with us.

Find the Rad Chat podcast here: www.radchat.co.uk 

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

CPD Reflection Points:

1. Reflect on your understanding of the relationship between menopause and cancer. Consider how this may influence the way you signpost patients for support.
2. Consider how effectively you recognise and manage the physical and emotional impact of treatment-induced or early menopause in people living with and beyond cancer, and what could you do differently to support their wellbeing?
3. Read the Menopause and Cancer survey results.
4. Read the symptoms of Menopause.

Complete this form for your accredited digital badge: Digital Badge Form.

Links from the Episode:

• Menopause and Cancer
• Navigating Menopause After Cancer: A comprehensive, empowering guide to all your treatment options, where to get help and how to feel better
• Menopause Support UK
• British Menopause Society
• The Menopause charity
• Menopause Matters

Research links from the Episode:

• Menopausal hormone therapy and incidence, mortality, and survival of breast cancer subtypes: a prospective cohort study
• Menopausal hormone therapy and breast cancer risk: a population-based cohort study of 1.3 million women in Norway
• The influence of menopause age on gynecologic cancer risk: a comprehensive analysis using NHANES data
• BMI and breast cancer risk around age at menopause
• Hormone Replacement Therapy and Risks of Various Cancers in Postmenopausal Women with De Novo or a History of Endometriosis
• Menopausal Hormone Therapy in Breast Cancer Survivors
• Menopause age and cancer risk is influenced by rare genetic variants

Menopause and Cancer Links:

• Menopause and Cancer 
• Navigating Menopause After Cancer: A comprehensive, empowering guide to all your treatment options, where to get help and how to feel better

Rad Chat Links:

• Rad Chat Website
• Link Tree
• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• BlueSky
• YouTube

Credits: Music and jingle credits: Dr. Ben Potts and Adam Cooke.

Being diagnosed with cancer is life-changing. But being told you have to stop HRT too? It’s a double whammy that can leave you feeling lost, frightened, and unsure where to turn.

In this episode, I speak with Sarah and Laura - two women who’ve lived through that moment. Laura is six months on, and Sarah is a year into life without HRT. They share their feelings on what it feels like, how they’ve coped, and what they’ve learned along the way.

This conversation isn’t about what’s right or wrong - it is my hope that you will be able to reflect a little on what has happed to you, or learn how a loved one or patient may experience this double whammy of a situation.

HRT can be transformative, even life-saving. So when it’s suddenly taken away, the grief and worry are real. With over 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide every year, thousands will face this same painful dilemma. And currently, there is ZERO support!

I am so proud, that at Menopause and Cancer, we are the only organisation dedicated solely to supporting people through the menopause after cancer. Our mission is to make sure no one is left without options, guidance, or hope. 

Unsure where to start?

Tune into podcast episode 178 - Stopping HRT: The Side Effect I Wasn’t Ready For - with Dr Talaulikar

And buy a copy of Dani’s book Navigating Menopause After Cancer: https://amzn.eu/d/6Bw8zmT

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

08:54 HRT Discussions After Breast Cancer

17:39 Navigating HRT and Cancer Diagnosis

25:19 Struggles with Cancer Treatment Decisions

32:26 "Cancer, Menopause, and Recovery"

42:11 "HRT Journey and Adjustments"

47:42 "Ongoing Management of Menopause"

54:10 Navigating Life Without HRT

01:00:53 Support After Cancer Journey

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

In this week’s episode, Dani continues her conversation with Dr Sarah Glynne, GP, menopause specialist, and co-author of the new paper “Menopausal Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients: What Is the Current Evidence?” - to explore one of the most frequently asked questions left after last week’s episode: testosterone therapy after breast cancer.

This is Part 2 of our special series following the publication of the new paper.

In this episode, Dani and Dr Glynne discuss:

What testosterone actually does for energy, mood, and libido.

The studies we have so far - and how reliable they are.

Whether testosterone can convert into oestrogen.

How testing works and when it might be appropriate.

Whether testosterone therapy can or should be used alongside endocrine treatments.

The paper is here: https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/9900/menopausal_hormone_therapy_for_breast_cancer.532.aspx

The Meno ABS trial: https://www.londonbreastcancer.com/meno-abc-trial

Find Dr Glynne here https://www.clairemellon.co.uk/dr-sarah-glynne

The episode on testosterone with Dr Rebecca Glaser is Ep 56

The episode with a patient on testosterone therapy is Ep 97

Read all about HRT after breast cancer in Dani’s book “Navigating Menopause After Cancer’ in chapter 6: Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/0uLveeE 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

03:34 "Testosterone Use in Women"

06:16 Testosterone Debate: Data vs. Choice

10:38 Menopause Consultation & Treatment Approaches

17:45 "Testosterone After Breast Cancer"

21:21 Complexity of Menopause Treatment Conversations

23:49 Vaginal Oestrogen

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

In this week’s episode of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, Dani speaks with two of the authors behind the new paper, Menopausal hormone therapy for breast cancer patients: what is the current evidence? Professor Jayant Vaidya, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon, and Dr Sarah Glynne, GP and menopause specialist.

This is the first of a two-part special exploring what this new paper and upcoming MENO-ABC clinical trial could mean for breast cancer survivors curious about HRT or already on HRT.

Up until recently, most experts thought a study like this would never happen — but it’s happening.

Together, they unpack:

• What’s new about this paper — and why it matters.
• The scientific and ethical concept of equipoise (yes, Dani learned a new word!).
• How the new MENO-ABC trial could change what we know about HRT use after breast cancer.
• What this research might mean for patients, clinicians, and the future of survivorship care.

Next week: Don’t miss part two, where Dani and Dr Sarah Glynne take a deep dive into testosterone use after breast cancer — what we know, what we don’t, and where the conversation is heading.

Links & Resources:

The paper: https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/9900/menopausal_hormone_therapy_for_breast_cancer.532.aspx

The trial: https://www.londonbreastcancer.com/meno-abc-trial

Find Dr Glynne here https://www.clairemellon.co.uk/dr-sarah-glynne

Find Professor Vaidya here https://professorvaidya.co.uk/

Watch Dani’s 5-part Youtube series on HRT after breast cancer, start here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heTF5ufX59Y&list=PLsUEBZ4ZwowpAQ1ueFUHlzDvzAtD_hyQr&index=6

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

08:01 "HRT Debate and Its Impact"

09:48 Evidence-Based Breast Cancer Trial

13:46 Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment

16:43 HRT Risks Post-Breast Cancer

20:52 Oestrogen Risks in Cancer Relapse

23:17 "Clinical Trial Equipoise Explained"

29:00 "Expert Consensus and Criticism"

29:47 Collaborative Review Strengthened Research

32:52 Breaking Shame Through Conversations

36:04 Weighing Risks for Quality Life

41:57 "Prioritising Quality Over Longevity"

43:08 HRT and Breast Cancer Relapse Risk

Read all about HRT after breast cancer in Dani’s book “Navigating Menopause After Cancer’ in chapter 6: Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/0uLveeE 

Many people in our community say it has become virtually impossible to shift the weight since cancer and menopause. So of course we ask ourselves: What role do GLP-1 medicines play in cancer survivorship and what do we really know about their safety, risks, and benefits? 

In this episode, I’m joined by Caroline Tweedie, currently working as the lead cancer nurse in the North East of England. With over 17 years’ experience as a Clinical Nurse Breast Specialist, Caroline has dedicated her career to improving the lives of those affected by breast cancer and sits on the NICE committee shaping national breast cancer guidance.

We explore, with curiosity - and never with judgement:

- What GLP-1 medicines are and why they are so effective

- Safety concerns and what the evidence shows for cancer survivors

- Why these drugs matter in breast cancer survivorship

- The role of GLP-1s in weight, muscle, bone health, inflammation, and fatigue

- Natural strategies that may work on similar pathways

- Key risks to be aware of: hair loss, sarcopenia, drug absorption, and endocrine therapy interactions

- What happens when you stop taking the drug

- Practical advice for patients and clinicians navigating this new landscape

Caroline also shares her insights on why weight loss isn’t the same as fitness, why muscle is the “anti-fatigue organ,” and what both patients and healthcare professionals need to know before considering GLP-1 use in survivorship care.

This is a nuanced, evidence-based discussion that puts patients at the centre. Whether you’re a survivor curious about GLP-1s or a healthcare professional supporting patients, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical takeaways.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

12:09 Survivorship Challenges Beyond Cancer Treatment

15:35 Weight Loss Treatments: Risks & Support

16:42 Bariatric Surgery vs Rapid Weight Loss

22:18 Protein Intake for Menopause Health

25:04 "Deciding on GLP1 Treatment"

29:06 GLP-1 Eligibility Criteria Explained

35:40 "Drug Trials and Patient Safety"

42:19 Obesity Support After Cancer

43:31 Diabetes Drugs, Costs, Future Hope

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

Inflammation is a word we hear everywhere these days but what does it really mean for cancer survivors going through treatment-induced menopause? Could the foods we eat, the drinks we choose, and the daily habits we build really make a difference to menopause symptoms like joint pain, hot flushes, fatigue, and brain fog?

In this episode, I’m joined by nutritionist Julie Webb, a specialist in oncology nutrition, to break down the science of inflammation and turn it into practical, everyday advice. Together, we explore:-

- What inflammation is and why it matters after cancer treatment

- How treatment-induced menopause can increase inflammation in the body

- The role of diet, which foods help reduce inflammation and which ones make it worse

- Omega-3s and fibre

- Practical tips for eating well when you may worry about weight

Whether you’re newly out of treatment or years into survivorship, this conversation is full of simple, actionable steps to help you feel stronger, calmer, and more in control.

For more information on how diet cane ease menopause symptoms, buy my new book: Navigating Menopause After Cancer: https://amzn.eu/d/2BycL21 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

04:46 Inflammation: Essential Immune Response

08:58 Understanding Body Changes and Symptoms

10:09 "Tips to Reduce Inflammation"

16:53 "10 Portions: A Healthy Challenge"

21:08 "Helpful Eating Habits"

24:10 Reduce Inflammation: Beans & Veg

30:48 Low Fibre Diet Tips

39:00 Boost Gut Health Naturally

45:29 Turmeric and Contraindications

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

“I don’t have time.”

“I can’t switch my brain off.”

“I’ve tried it before - it didn’t work.”

Sound familiar? In todays episode, Dani explores how easy it is to not try breathwork or meditation when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or just fed up. But here’s the truth: these simple tools can make a real difference, especially for people navigating menopause after cancer.

In this solo episode, Dani reads a little from her book, shares a short poem, and introduces our new Wellbeing Series on YouTube — guided meditations and mindfulness practices designed to help you actually start. No pressure. No perfection. Just a moment to breathe.

Watch the Wellbeing Series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseandCancer?sub_confirmation=1

Navigating Menopause After Cancer: https://amzn.eu/d/2y957Oy 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 "Intro

04:44 "Wellbeing Series for Our Community"

07:33 Practical Meditation for Everyday Life

11:21 Prioritising Self-Care Through Planning

13:51 "Mindfulness Benefits for Women"

18:24 "Embracing Imperfection in Meditation"

22:44 "Self-Care Series on YouTube"

24:03 She Let Go by Safire Rose 

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

This week’s episode is a little different — I’m taking you behind the scenes of two very special moments: our 50km fundraising walk and a powerful all-day event at Future Dreams House. Wherever you are at - whatever symptoms you may have, this episode will make you feel good! Promise!

You’ll hear real, unfiltered snippets from the trail, including a brilliant chat about Viagra and vaginal moisturisers (yes, really!) with one of our wonderful supporters, Eleanor Gardener from Pelvic Relief and a doctor friend. These conversations, full of honesty and laughter, are exactly what happens when we walk side by side and talk openly about menopause after cancer.

Then, we shift from muddy boots to the magic of community health spaces, exploring how coming together, sharing stories, and building trust can truly change people’s health journeys.

Find all your menopause after cancer answers in the book: https://amzn.eu/d/8y9a901

For the Ohnut and all the other brilliant tools to help with sexual health symptoms, go to Pelvic Relief https://pelvicrelief.co.uk/

For how to fundraise for Menopause And Cancer yourself, go here: https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/about

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction - “Walking to Find Strength"

12:46 Chat with Eleanor Gardener

14:45 Vaginal Moisturiser Development Journey

22:20 Gynaecological Cancer and Menopause Care with Dr Jo Bailey 

25:05 "Educating Healthcare on Menopause Care"

33:21 Menopause Support for Cancer Survivors

40:42 "Building Relationships Beyond the Organisation"

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

This week, Dani is joined by Alyson, a listener of the show and valued member of our community, to talk honestly about low libido, zero sex drive, intimacy, and finding pleasure again after cancer.

Has your sex life changed? No libido? Can’t be bothered? 

Alyson shares her personal journey — from enjoying a healthy sex life to suddenly being thrown into menopause during chemotherapy, and how her libido “completely left the building.” She opens up about the reality of navigating these changes, what we want, what our partners want, and how complex it can be when everything feels different.

Alyson also shares practical tips for reigniting desire and highlights why a positive mindset matters when it comes to intimacy after cancer.

At the end of the show, Dani makes an unusual offer and shares a bit more from her own experience than usual!

While Dani’s book Navigating Menopause After Cancer doesn’t go into huge detail about libido, it does cover vaginal health and vaginal oestrogen from a worldwide perspective, offering evidence-based insights and practical guidance.

The Kindle e-book is just £1.99 — so go grab your copy here https://amzn.eu/d/a2QTVE6

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

10:23 Seeking Menopause Support & Solutions

16:11 Grieving Sexuality After Cancer

22:39 Balancing Desire in Relationships

27:31 "Schedule Time for Self-Care"

34:23 Negative Focus in Belief Systems

44:20 Exploring Power Dynamics in Sex

52:30 Changing Perspectives on Intimacy

53:51 "Quality Over Quantity in Intimacy"

Find Alyson here: https://www.alysonfilippalcsw.com/

Alyson’s resources: 

The book Prerequisites to Ecstasy https://amzn.eu/d/hN6IRtf

Slow Sex https://amzn.eu/d/a1dzSsN

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

This week, I’m joined by the brilliant Sinéad for an honest conversation about the ongoing reality of menopause after cancer.

We talk about what it’s like to navigate life after treatment — how our bodies and identities change, how frustrating it is to have to work so hard at everything (even when considering a simple supplement!), and why it’s so important for others to understand that this journey doesn’t just stop when the treatment ends.

Sinéad also shares from her personal experience of cancer and trauma, and brings her coaching hat to offer some brilliant, practical tips on resilience.

I have a feeling you’ll be nodding along as you listen.

Sinead is a Transformational Coach and workplace Culture Consultant. For more information or to contact Sinead go to: https://www.abetter-workplace.com/

To find our events and workshops go here: https://menopauseandcancer.org/events/

Get a copy of Dani’s book to fins out about all your evidence-based treatment-options: https://amzn.eu/d/ddeS6AD

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro

05:20 Cancer's Impact on Job and Confidence

07:03 Adapting to Personal Change at Work

12:57 Post-Cancer: Struggles Beyond Treatment

14:47 Difficult Decision: Surgery and Miscarriage

19:26 Questioning Resilience Vs. Overexertion

25:47 Practicing Self-Compassion: A Journey

30:30 Workplace Culture and Self-Compassion

34:50 Adapting to Personal Change

37:10 Resilience: Innate Trait or Learned Skill?

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