What Does It Mean If My Periods Have Stopped?
Periods may become irregular or stop altogether if your cancer or its treatment has affected the delicate balance of hormones that governs the normal menstrual cycle. Many other conditions cause cessation of periods. Notify your doctor if your periods change or stop.
If My Periods Have Stopped, Will They Start Up Again?
Your periods may start up again depending on
•your age when you received cancer treatment
• the type of treatment received
• the dose and duration of treatment
If I Am Not Having Periods, Can I Get Pregnant?
Yes. Although very unlikely, it is still possible that your normal cycle will return. If you are not using contraception, you risk getting pregnant before your first period.
If I Am Having Periods, Can I Assume That I Am Fertile?
No. There are many factors that govern fertility. You can have periods without eggs being released for fertilization.
Are There Any Problems Associated with Not Having Periods?
Women stop having periods at menopause. When menopause occurs at any earlier-than-average age for whatever reason (such as surgical removal of the ovaries, chemotherapy- or radiation therapy-related loss of ovarian function, or a familial tendency), the woman is said to have premature menopause, or early menopause.
The hormonal changes of menopause are felt to be related to the development of thinning of the bones (osteoporosis) and the development of coronary artery disease (which can cause a heart attack) in women at risk. The earlier the age at menopause, the higher the risk of these problems. Menopausal women can pursue a number of measures to offset the changes of menopause. Discuss with your doctor your treatment options. When any doctor discusses hormone replacement therapy (HRT), be sure you understand the pros and cons of such therapy in your particular case regarding
•your risk of recurrent cancer
•your risk of a new cancer
• the role of HRT in prevention of osteoporosis
• the role of HRT in prevention of heart disease
•your risk of blood clots
• the treatment of menopausal symptoms
Some women find menopause liberating and its side effects minimal. Others find that it requires a physically and/or emotionally very difficult adjustment. Seek information and support if your menopause is difficult.
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