Menopause After Ovarian Cancer: What You Need to Know

Going through menopause after ovarian cancer treatment is not the same as a natural transition, and if you’re feeling confused or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), we’re committed to helping survivors understand their bodies, manage symptoms, and access expert care.

In this episode of Teal Talk – An Ovarian Cancer Podcast, Dr. Stephanie McNally joins us to unpack what treatment-induced menopause really looks like, and what survivors can do to feel more comfortable and in control.

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What is menopause after ovarian cancer?

Unlike the gradual changes of natural menopause, menopause after ovarian cancer often happens suddenly due to treatment like chemotherapy or the surgical removal of ovaries.

“Menopause is not hysterectomy, it’s removal of the ovaries. And that’s a really important piece because there’s different surgical interventions,” explains Dr. McNally. 

There are three common types of menopause:

• Surgical menopause: Happens when both ovaries are removed during treatment.
• Chemical or medical menopause: Triggered by chemotherapy or hormone-blocking medication.
• Natural menopause: Happens gradually, typically around age 51—but it may come earlier.

Understanding your menopausal type helps you make informed decisions about your care and symptom management.

Recognizing early menopause symptoms after cancer treatment

Hot flashes might get the spotlight, but menopause symptoms can affect every part of your body, especially if you’re experiencing menopause before age 45.

Common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Brain fog and forgetfulness
• Mood changes or anxiety
• Difficulty sleeping
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intimacy
• Weight gain or “meno belly”
• Joint pain and fatigue
• Changes in libido

“Vaginal vulvar health, urinary infections can be more pronounced because of a decrease in estrogen… cognitive function, bone health, cardiovascular changes… really from that head to toe, front to back, anything is possible,” says Dr. McNally.

If you’ve gone through treatment-induced menopause, these symptoms may be more intense and long-term risks like bone loss and heart health concerns become more important to monitor.

Menopause support after treatment: What are your options?

Finding the right menopause support after treatment can make a world of difference. That might mean working with a certified menopause specialist, exploring safe therapies, or simply finding a provider who truly listens.

“You want be empowered when you walk into a provider’s office to say, this is happening,” says Dr. McNally. “Please, let’s work to find the right patient-centered treatment.”

Here’s how to get started:

• Talk to your oncology team or gynecologist. They understand your treatment history and can guide next steps.
• Seek a menopause-certified provider through the Menopause Society’s directory.
• Explore hormone therapy after cancer—carefully. Localized hormone therapy (like vaginal estrogen) may be safe for many survivors, even those with hormone-sensitive cancers. Always speak with your doctor first.
• Try managing menopause naturally. Diet, exercise, pelvic floor therapy, acupuncture, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help ease symptoms without medication.

Take this with you: What to remember about menopause after ovarian cancer

Menopause doesn’t have to be a mystery—or a struggle. If you’re experiencing surgical menopause or other treatment-related changes, support is available.

Key takeaways:

• Your symptoms are real. From hot flashes to emotional shifts—your experience matters.
• Knowledge is power. Learn how cancer treatment affects your menopause journey.
• You have options. From non-hormonal therapies to local estrogen treatments, there are safe solutions to explore.
• You’re not alone. NOCC and a nationwide network of menopause-certified providers are here to help.