Episode 155 - Broadway Star Turned Cancer Survivorship and Menopause Advocate
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
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Episode 154 - HRT, Sugar, Turmeric & Myths: Cancer & Menopause Facts You Need to Hear
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
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Episode 153 - Herbal Medicine for Menopause: What Works for Your Symptoms
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
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Episode 152 - Osteoporosis Risk After Cancer Treatment
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
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Episode 151 - How to Heal Holistically
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
Has cancer treatment led you to early menopause? Do you feel confused about your options? This podcast hosts conversations with cancer patients, survivors and medical professionals to learn about treatments available for women with a cancer diagnosis.
I’m Dani Binnington, after breast cancer, surgery to remove my ovaries led me to early menopause, I had no idea what my treatment options were and who in my medical team could help me figure out what to do about my symptoms. I felt alone and unsupported. It took me so long to discover I had lots of options too.
If only I’d known sooner!
Everything I wish I’d known back then is inside these conversations - so you can make the right choices now.
These episodes are a good place to start:
1. Rethinking Tamoxifen & Aromatase Inhibitors
2. Why I decided to take HRT after an oestrogen driven cancer
2. Alcohol & Me
Menopause and cancer is also a thriving community online and in real life.
Join the Facebook community to connect with women going through the same thing you are: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub
Ireland