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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
chemo induced menopause
Answered by
Cleveland - OH
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
chemo induced menopause
by Ray515, Oct 05, 2008 01:21PM
In July I finished my fourth and last round of Cytoxan and Taxotere for breast cancer. I am currently receiving weekly Herceptin treatments. I had my last period in June and since mid-July have been enduring approximately 15 hot flashes per day. My FSH level is 77.4 and my LH level is 53.8. I am 43 years old.
1. Do these levels indicate that I am post menopausal now?
2. If so, is it likely that I will remain post menopausal or could it reverse since I was premenopausal up until the chemo?
3. How long am I likely to continue to experience the severe hot flashes if I remain post menopausal or, when can I expect my body to settle down?
Thank you.
1. Do these levels indicate that I am post menopausal now?
2. If so, is it likely that I will remain post menopausal or could it reverse since I was premenopausal up until the chemo?
3. How long am I likely to continue to experience the severe hot flashes if I remain post menopausal or, when can I expect my body to settle down?
Thank you.
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, Oct 07, 2008 07:31AM
, Oct 07, 2008 07:31AM
Dear Ray515: One blood test is not sufficient to determine menopausal status as there can be much fluctuation during perimenopause. Menopause is defined as one year without a menstrual period. It is too soon to say for sure whether or not you will have any more periods or not. During perimenopause and menopause, hot flashes can occur. These are highly variable between women with respect to intensity, duration and number. There is no way we could speculate on how this may resolve in your situation. You should discuss all of this with your oncologist and gynecologist who can possibly offer some safe suggestions for managing these should they persist.
