The Menopause and Cancer Podcast

Dani Binnington
  • 5.0 (33)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

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

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 221 - Who controls what happens between women’s legs after menopause

    Who controls what happens between women’s legs after menopause? It’s a confronting question, but one that sits at the heart of this episode. In this short, powerful conversation, I am joined by menopause specialist and sexologist Dr Angela Wright to explore why so many women — particularly those who have had cancer — are still being denied access to vaginal and vulval oestrogen treatments. And why we’re not routinely having the conversation about sexual health after cancer treatment. Despite being widely recognised as one of the most effective and low-risk treatments for genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM), access remains incredibly low. Many women are left navigating pain, dryness, recurrent infections, loss of sexual function, and a deep impact on identity and relationships — often without being offered treatment. Or they’re told ‘no’. This episode explores: Why are women not allowed to make an informed choice about their intimate health?The realities of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) — and why it’s more than “just dryness”The added complexity for women on treatments like aromatase inhibitors (e.g. Letrozole)The emotional and relational impact of untreated symptomsHow history, culture, and medical caution continue to shape women’s access to careThe growing body of guidance suggesting low-dose vaginal hormones may be appropriate for many women, including after breast cancerThe balance between clinical responsibility and patient autonomy This is not a black-and-white conversation. It’s not about right or wrong. It’s an invitation — to think, to question, and to open up more honest, informed conversations between patients and healthcare professionals. Because at its core, is it about choice? Links mentioned in this episode: You can find Dr Wright here: https://spicedpearhealth.co.uk/about/ Sweetness of Venus: A history of the clitoris book https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sweetness-Venus-History-Clitoris/dp/B08W3NZ1H9 Women’s Health Made Easy Book: for Healthcare Professionals, click here More information about vaginal oestrogen after breast cancer: https://menopauseandcancer.org/navigating-vaginal-oestrogen-after-breast-cancer-what-every-woman-needs-to-know/ Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 05:36 Doctor's journey and women's health 08:17 Challenges of Menopause Treatment 10:32 Debating hormone prescription guidelines 14:25 Discussing medical trauma and autonomy 18:19 Discussing bodily agency and benefits 21:18 Reclaiming life after trauma 24:31 Understanding compliance with endocrine therapies 26:42 Valuing women's opinions in healthcare 29:48 Discussing erectile dysfunction post-cancer 34:39 Opening conversations on sexual health 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

    36 min

  2. Jun 3

    Episode 220 - What are my rights? Working with cancer and menopause

    Do you know your rights to work after a cancer diagnosis and with ongoing menopause symptoms? From navigating time off, to returning to work, to managing menopause symptoms in the workplace, it can feel overwhelming to know what your rights are and what support you should expect. I’m joined by Barbara Wilson, from Working With Cancer, who brings over 50 years of experience supporting people through cancer at work. Together, we break this down in a really practical way— so you can feel more informed and more confident in advocating for yourself. In this episode, we cover: Whether cancer is automatically considered a disability under UK lawYour rights when returning to work after treatmentWhat a good return-to-work plan should actually look likeWhat “reasonable adjustments” mean — and real-life examplesWhat counts as discrimination in this contextHow much do you need to disclose about your diagnosis (including when applying for a job)Whether menopause is recognised as a disability under UK lawHow treatment-induced menopause after cancer is considered in the workplaceWhether employers are expected to support menopause symptoms Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 06:31 Supporting employees with cancer 08:07 Discussing cancer diagnoses and menopause 13:38 Creating flexible workplace plans 15:29 Discussing cancer disclosure at work 20:23 Discussing return to work planning 22:00 Discussing phased return to work 28:48 Supporting employees with health challenges 31:22 Menopause and post-cancer life changes 37:16 Flexible work schedule adjustments 43:07 Reevaluating work after cancer diagnosis 44:39 Easing back into work 47:52 Disclosing cancer to an employer Link to Working with Cancer: https://workingwithcancer.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

    52 min

  3. May 27

    Episode 219 - Who Am I Now: Identity After Menopause and Cancer

    In this very special community conversation, I sit down with a group of incredible women from our Menopause and Cancer community to explore something so many of us struggle with after cancer treatment… identity. I’m so grateful the group allowed me to get this conversation out to you! Lucky us. Who are we now? Together, we talk openly about the physical and emotional changes that can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves — from body image and confidence, to work, relationships, grief, loss, purpose and rebuilding. Rather than bringing in an expert, I thought it might be best to just have an honest conversation, share experiences and learn from one another. Because the wisdom in our community is WONDERFUL! What became clear throughout this discussion is that so many of us are living in what I call “the messy middle” — no longer who we were before cancer, but not yet fully arrived in who we are becoming. If you’ve ever felt lost, changed, disconnected or uncertain about your place in the world after treatment, this episode is for you. YouTube Wellness Series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsUEBZ4ZwowoJ0t4pV-gmwGSqruDPm-2P&si=7UE81giK-2v5eByM Episode 214 - What It Really Feels Like & And Your Questions Answered: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-214-what-it-really-feels-like-and-your/id1631842514?i=1000762984322 Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 03:18 Exploring identity and personal growth 07:51 The jar and pebbles analogy 12:31 Coping with treatment and diagnosis 13:49 Discussing challenges of societal expectations 16:47 Struggles with overthinking and doubt 22:47 Facing the unknown post-treatment 23:47 Sharing post-cancer treatment experiences 29:24 Reflecting on life after cancer 32:42 Coping after a mastectomy 35:11 Morning mirror positivity trick 40:24 Navigating daily challenges with compassion 45:36 Navigating menopause and survivorship 47:42 Reflecting on personal growth journey 49:40 Focusing on self-care and being present 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

    51 min

  4. May 20

    Episode 218 - What Is It Like for Partners? Men Supporting Women Through Cancer & Menopause

    In this episode, I’m joined by Rob and Andy, two partners navigating life alongside their wives through cancer and menopause. I actually asked in our Facebook community if anyone’s partners would be willing to come on the podcast… and these two were put forward by their wives — earning themselves serious brownie points in the process. This is a really honest conversation about what it feels like to be on the other side. We talk about the overwhelm, the uncertainty, and that feeling of wanting to help but not always knowing how. From the emotional impact to the mood changes, this episode sheds light on a perspective we don’t hear enough about. Because supporting someone through cancer and menopause doesn’t come with a manual — and partners need support and understanding too. And yes - I did bring up intimacy and low libido - and they did not just quit the call! I am so grateful to Rob and Andy! Thank you so much! If this resonates, do share this episode with your partner — so we can include them in this conversation too. This one is for you… and for them. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 04:13 Discovering and diagnosing cancer 14:49 Discussing menopause challenges and support 18:50 Discussing impacts of menopause 21:49 Challenges in managing menopause symptoms 22:55 Dealing with post-cancer anxiety 30:41 Discussing intimacy post-cancer 34:43 Importance of communication in relationships 37:46 Discussing menopause and HRT advice 42:05 Discussing medically induced menopause 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

    44 min

  5. May 13

    Episode 217 - Support, Strength & Saying It As It Is - Living with Secondary Cancer

    In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Lisa, founder of Make 2nds Count and The House of Hope charity in Edinburgh, who is living with secondary breast cancer while continuing to support so many others. This is an honest, heartfelt conversation about what it really means to live with ongoing cancer treatment. I ask Lisa if she feels excluded from other menopause conversations and even from the many cancer chats out there. We talk about saying it as it is, the emotional reality of menopause and secondary cancer, and the strategies that help day-to-day, alongside the strength, purpose and perspective that can still exist within it all. Lisa’s work has been a shining light for me personally, especially when I was building Menopause and Cancer and recording this episode while one of our community support sessions was taking place at The House of Hope felt like a real full-circle moment. We also share more about our upcoming Menopause Awareness Day event on the 18th June, which we’ll be marking at The House of Hope. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter here https://menopauseandcancer.org/, and we will let you know of all of our upcoming events! Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 03:55 Founding Scotland's first support center 09:31 Menopause and cancer diagnosis discussions 12:52 Discussing treatment decisions and surgery 18:27 Discussing menopause treatment options 20:36 Navigating menopause and chemo challenges 26:06 Founding a Make 2nds Count and The House of Hope 27:50 Starting a charity from my hospital bed 33:34 Charitable collaborations and community building 37:59 Balancing work and mindfulness 40:25 Menopause workshop Links: House of Hope: https://houseofhope.org.uk/ Make 2nds count: https://make2ndscount.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

    45 min

  6. May 6

    Episode 216 - Is It Brain Fog… or ADHD?

    In this episode, I’m joined by GP and menopause specialist Dr Helen Wall, and we’re exploring something that so many of you have been talking about in our community — struggling with brain fog, focus, memory, total overwhelm, and that feeling of just not feeling like you can manage anymore. We often call it brain fog. But what if, for some of us, it could be something more? Today, we’re diving into ADHD in women, and how it can show up — or become more noticeable — during menopause and after, especially cancer treatment. Because the reality is, many women are only being diagnosed later in life. And for those of us navigating sudden menopause, hormonal changes, and the impact of cancer treatment, it can feel even more confusing to understand what’s really going on in our brains. This episode is here to help you make sense of it all. We also talk about: How do I know what’s what? Does lifestyle help my ADHD brain? Can you take ADHD medication after cancer? And so much more. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 06:55 Discussing menopause and mental load 10:04 Navigating neurodivergence and perimenopause 16:24 ADHD, oestrogen, and perimenopause link 17:58 The impact of menopause on brain function 22:38 Lack of education on female hormones 25:43 Understanding ADHD in women and girls 28:07 Challenges with post-cancer employment and support 34:08 ADHD medication challenges and support 39:24 ADHD and diet considerations 44:45 Navigating ADHD and menopause You can find Helen’s book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Menopause-ADHD-neurodivergence-Vermilion-Empowered/dp/178504642X And this is Helen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorhelenwall/ 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

    46 min

  7. Apr 29

    Episode 215 - Bone Health After Cancer & Menopause: What Every Survivor Needs to Know

    In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsey Lester, a British Menopause Society-accredited specialist and breast cancer survivor, for an essential conversation on bone health after cancer and menopause. Bone health is one of the most common — and least talked about — long-term effects of cancer treatment. Whether your menopause was triggered suddenly by treatment or has developed over time, the impact on your bones can be significant. We explore how treatments such as chemotherapy, endocrine therapies (including tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors), steroids, and treatment-induced menopause can all affect bone density — across different types of cancer, not just breast cancer. We also talk about who may be most at risk, how quickly bone density can change, and why bone loss is often called a “silent” condition — with many people not realising until much later. A key part of this conversation is understanding DEXA scans — when to have one, how often to monitor your bone health, and what it really means if you’re told you have osteopenia or osteoporosis. But most importantly, this episode is about what you can do. From nutrition and movement to medications and monitoring, Lindsey shares clear, practical ways to protect your bones — and answers one of the biggest questions so many people have after cancer: Can we improve our bone health without HRT? This episode will help you feel more informed, more in control, and better equipped to make decisions about your long-term health. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 06:09 Participant introductions and background questions 09:00 Discussing osteoporosis awareness plan 13:03 Postmenopausal bone health risks 15:16 Discussing bone health awareness 20:08 Young people unaware of health risks 22:49 Discussing tamoxifen and ovarian function 28:51 Experiencing medical and surgical menopause 31:37 Calcium and vitamin D for bone health 39:52 Tracking calcium on a vegan diet 44:54 Discussing exercise for bone health 49:30 Cholesterol management with exercise 51:47 Benefits of building muscle Here are some links we mentioned: https://theros.org.uk/information-and-support/bone-health/nutrition-for-bones/calcium/calcium-rich-food-chooser/ https://strwebstgmedia.blob.core.windows.net/media/0lhowmrk/about-exercise-fact-sheet-february-2019.pdf You can find Lindsey here: https://healthinmenopause.co.uk/meet-the-team/ 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

    1 hr

  8. Apr 22

    Episode 214 - What It Really Feels Like & And Your Questions Answered

    In this episode, I’m doing something a little different. I’m sharing real stories of who I met, what went on in our menopause after cancer community, and real experiences of what menopause after cancer actually feels like. The parts that often go unspoken. I mull over if menopause after cancer needs a rebrand?What does it mean to set realistic expectations? And alongside that, I’m answering your questions. From hair to how long does menopause last to GLP-1’s and risk — this is a space to bring it all together. Because so often, we’re told what should happen… but not what it really feels like to live through it. And because sometimes the best meaning advice is hard to implement for yourself - right at the end, I’m reading a beautiful poem to you by Jeff Foster - it’s called: Slow Down Friend. You’re not alone in this. And there are ways to feel better. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 05:42 Discussing menopause after cancer support 17:40 Answering listener questions on hair thinning 20:54 Diagnosing and treating hair loss 23:04 Discussing hair fibres and re-growth helmets 25:55 Discussing menopause after ovary removal 29:33 Managing cancer treatment and lifestyle risks 32:11 Considering whole patient health 35:26 Finding solace in the poem, Slow Down Friend Episode mentions: Episode 118: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-118-what-is-the-evidence-between-hrt-and-breast/id1631842514?i=1000666722248 Episode 191: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-191-i-cant-shift-the-weight-should-i-consider/id1631842514?i=1000736358058 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

    39 min
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About

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

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