The Menopause and Cancer Podcast (Dani Binnington)

We are thrilled to welcome back the incredible Dr. Annice Mukherjee. Our journey began with an episode featuring Annice discussing "Non-Hormonal Treatment Options" when we first launched, and now, we're eager for her to wrap up this year with us!

Dr. Mukherjee, a breast cancer survivor, endocrinologist, and menopause expert shares invaluable insights and empowers us with the knowledge we need to embrace our own power and agency! Her firsthand experience and expertise remind us of our resilience.

Self-care and stress management are often misconstrued as selfish acts, yet they are essential practices that nurture our overall well-being, particularly during times when stress levels soar. Understanding this is especially crucial when navigating menopause after cancer. Embracing self-care isn't a luxury but a well-documented approach supported by substantial evidence in lifestyle medicine. It illuminates how our daily habits — nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep quality, and social connections — profoundly impact our health outcomes.

May this episode serve as the catalyst for you to step into your strength and approach 2024 with the conviction that YOU hold the power to significantly impact your own life and well-being.

Dr. Mukherjee can be found here https://www.instagram.com/the.hormone.doc/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction

09:28 Chronic stress can cause many health problems.

16:32 Regulate sleep for better health, hormone balance.

17:48 Avoid blue light, relax before sleep, sunlight.

24:37 Regain control over your well-being and recovery.

29:49 Nutrition and cancer: small changes are crucial.

32:15 Lifestyle medicine: 6 pillars for healthy living.

44:09 Self-care is not selfish, but necessary.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

In today’s episode, Dr. Olivia Hum, a British Menopause Society expert, will guide us through expert solutions to manage joint aches and pains and what we can do to look after our bone health.

We will also discuss:

• Holistic joint aches solutions
• How can I look after my bone health?
• What is a Dexa scan?
• How do I know my bones are at risk?
• Mental health support
• Q&A - Dr. Hum answers your questions

This episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.

Dr Olivia Hum is an NHS GP with expertise in menopause and cancer patients. She has co-founded Myla Health and is an accredited British Menopause Specialist.

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro

09:19 Osteoporosis Risk and Prevention

13:10 Calcium and Exercise for Bone Health

24:17 Menopause and Osteoporosis Risk Factors

26:53 Boosting Fibre and Bone Health

36:19 Oncologists' Strategies with Aromatase Inhibitors

39:30 Managing Pain

42:39 Codeine: Effects and Risks Explained

01:06:32 Post-Cancer Menopause Health Plan

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

This is a fascinating conversation and I urge you to listen to it. Do you snore? Do you sleep with your mouth open? Well, if you do, this may have a negative impact on quite a few of your menopause symptoms. Dr. Louise Oliver discusses the critical role of breathing in overall health, particularly during menopause. She shares her personal journey from being a GP to becoming a functional breathing expert after experiencing sleep issues related to her breathing patterns. We talk about the impact of breathing on sleep quality, the detoxification processes in the body and brain, and practical tips for improving breathing efficiency. 

Thanks to our sponsors https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ Made For Life Organics - one of the most authentic skin-care brands that I have come across. They are true organic skin care products, hand-blended in Cornwall, with a unique mix of botanical ingredients combining science with nature. Go to https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ they are giving our community 20% off with MENO20.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

03:20 Peri-menopause snoring impacted sleep.

07:32 Snoring disrupts sleep; affects body's repair processes.

14:42 Diaphragm aids lymphatic movement; nasal breathing helps.

19:15 Women are upper chest breathers.

21:54 Snoring or mouth breathing indicates inefficient breathing.

28:06 Correct tongue position improves airway and mindfulness.

31:49 Tongue exercise lifts chin, strengthens tongue muscles.

37:47 Use Myotape to manage over breathing effectively.

43:22 Link menopause sleep issues with obstructive sleep apnea.

48:56 Release tension through mindful breathing.

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

Dr Louise Oliver is a GP, Functional Breathing Practitioner & Therapeutic Life Coach.

Website: https://www.drlouiseolivertherapeuticlifecoaching.com/

The mouth tape Louise mentions is https://oxygenadvantage.com/store/ with the code LOUISEOLIVER5 you get 5% off.

How to assess if you are breathing efficiently video is here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZINIm_SVvM

Breathing info for children: 

https://www.drlouiseolivertherapeuticlifecoaching.com/post/child-development-and-nasal-breathing

Has anyone here experienced raised cholesterol levels as a result of menopause since cancer treatment or as a result of being on an aromatase inhibitor?

I’m horrified that so many of us are getting high cholesterol and nobody has warned us this may be something to look out for. 

In this episode, I invite longevity dietician Barbie Boule onto the show to discuss the topic of cholesterol, particularly about cancer survivors and menopause. We address the confusion surrounding cholesterol and its importance and Boule addresses strategies that can help - from medication to diet. 

This conversation also covers the role of saturated fat and fibre in cholesterol management, the potential use of supplements, and the limitations of herbal preparations. 

Overall, the episode provides practical advice and encourages listeners to take control of their metabolic health.

A big thanks to our trusted sponsor, The Better Menopause. I’m excited to share their amazing product, The Better Gut with you. Most women don’t realize that gut health and menopause symptoms are intrinsically linked—keeping your gut happy is the foundation for overall health, through all stages of life. The Better Gut is a daily capsule packed with a unique, science-backed probiotic blend designed to survive stomach acid, reach your gut alive and help improve symptoms such as bloating, hot flushes and anxiety. 

Go check them out - The Better Gut is a big help for many https://thebettermenopause.com/products/better-gut?selling_plan=690396627248

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

04:18 Menopause disrupts metabolism, and requires close health monitoring.

06:24 Evaluate medication's benefits versus potential side effects.

15:03 Adopt mini-habits, limit saturated fats, improve cholesterol.

17:23 Balanced, colourful eating with phytonutrients is beneficial.

28:08 Cancer treatments impact cholesterol; awareness is crucial.

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

You can find Barbie Boule here https://barbieboules.com/

Considering complementary therapies can provide additional support and relief. Complementary therapies encompass a range of approaches such as acupuncture, yoga, herbal remedies, and mindfulness techniques, among others. These therapies aim to alleviate menopausal symptoms and improve overall well-being.

For many cancer survivors, traditional medical interventions might not address all aspects of menopause-related issues. Complementary therapies offer holistic approaches that focus on managing symptoms, reducing stress, enhancing quality of life, and supporting emotional well-being during this transitional phase. Let’s dive in!

How to check for contraindications:

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs?fbclid=IwAR2TDuZ-rrRwlUVofch0gQ4ctNQH6XvzIsfCDlT55D1TGsW5kAd-VYza_SM

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:06 Complementary therapies require patient participation and may have obstacles.

06:53 Seek acupuncture locally, consider herbal medication cautiously.

10:52 Research herbs, seek medical herbalist help, and practice mindfulness and yoga for stress reduction.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Professor Waljit Dhillo is a Professor in Endocrinology & Metabolism at Imperial College London. He has shown for the first time that NK3R antagonists reduce menopausal symptoms by 73% in post-menopausal women with severe flushing. 

This is incredible! 

Let’s hear how this can help you.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

This is a thought provoking podcast that will have you questioning why you do what you do. Cancer treatments come with many physical changes, from the obvious hair loss to menopausal weight gain and many in between. We’ve not asked for them and often all we want is to go back to the pre-cancer versions of ourselves. 

But have we also been socialised as women to dislike ourselves, to dislike our bodies?

And if disliking our bodies is learned behaviour, can we un-learn it?

We also talk about how women are socialised to have a distorted relationship with food and how that impacts our health as we age.

As for me, I’m done with being a good girl now! ;-)

I am delighted to have Elizabeth Sherman on the podcast today. Elizabeth is a Master Certified Menopause Health and Life Coach, but what she really does is help women improve their relationships with themselves, their bodies, food, and exercise.

Elizabeth’s podcast is here: Done with Dieting. 

Her Instagram is @donewithdietngpodcast

Website: https://elizabethsherman.com/ 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Many women say that being on a long-term anti-hormone treatment such as tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors is much harder than chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery altogether.

So I’ve invited breast speciality oncologist Dr. Claire Macaulay from Glasgow onto the podcast to answer your questions. 

We’re also joined by a group of our community to join us for this recording so that they get to ask their questions whilst being on the live show!

Both tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are hormonal therapies used in the treatment of oestrogen-positive (ER-positive) breast cancers to stop tumour growth and recurrence and to treat cancer that has come back after initial treatment or that has spread to other parts of the body.

These treatments come with the benefits of reducing the risks of cancer recurrence and they also come with a host of unwanted side effects. Sometimes, these can very much reduce a woman's quality of life. 

Dr. Claire Macaulay recognises the challenges these treatments come with and talks us through our options. 

Dr. Macaulay is also a certified sex coach supporting people in the menopause to have improved sex lives. You can find her here https://www.pleasurepossibility.com

And join her private Facebook group here 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

What’s the deal with menopause and diet after cancer? Is there a ‘best way to eat’?

I’ve been looking for an expert on this for a long time and I was so thrilled that the incredibly knowledgeable Hillary Wright has agreed to speak to us.

Hillary Wright is a registered and licensed dietitian with over 2 decades of experience - and now wait for it: She is a Senior Nutritionist at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA, providing nutrition care for patients undergoing treatment, as well as cancer survivors AND she is an expert on menopause too, being the co-author of the Menopause Diet Plan, a book that I can highly recommend.

As the Director for Nutrition Counselling for the Domar Center for Mind Body Health in Waltham, MA, Hillary specialises in nutrition and women’s health.

In today's episode she will debunk some myths and share the latest evidence on:

(26:31) Sugar,

(58:51) Fasting,

(25:21) Dairy,

(49:41) Soya,

(39:38) Diet to reduce recurrence,

(23:51) Diet to help with symptoms of the menopause,

(21:30) Weight.

Hillary Right can be found here https://hillarywright.com/about-hillary-wright/

Or on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/menopausedietplan/?hl=en

The Menopause Diet Plan book is here for you https://www.amazon.co.uk/Menopause-Diet-Plan-Complete-Happiness/dp/0593135660

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme 

Facebook: @healthywholeme 

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website:

Many people say their clinical nurse specialist has helped them much more in dealing with menopausal symptoms than their doctors ever did. Sadly, many more say they were pushed back when they went and asked for help. 

Andrea Ward is a team leader for the breast care nurse team at York and Scarborough NHS Trust. She works in a combined role as a Macmillan Breast Care Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Nurse Practitioner and on the episode today she is helping us understand what we can expect from our specialist nurses at what point in our treatment. 

It is crucial that we know who to ask for help! 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

I am very excited to welcome Dr. Lindsey Thomas onto today’s episode of the podcast. Lindsey is a registered British Menopause Society Specialist, with the highest level of training. She can be found at the NHS specialist menopause clinic in Leeds and she is also a menopause specialist at Menopause Care.

She has worked in a large inner city practice in Sheffield as a GP for almost 20 years, where much of her time has been spent working in women’s and sexual health. So I could not think of a better guest to help us understand:

How to get help if we need it?

Who to ask for help?

And when to ask for it?

Each week I get emails from women who say they have had absolutely no help. They might have been discharged after their active treatment for cancer and they feel just left. Many echo what I have been experiencing myself - and that is total confusion of what’s what? What is menopause? What is cancer? What’s lingering from the pandemic if you have been diagnosed throughout? And then we wonder who is the right person to help us? Our oncologist? GP?

I have made it my mission to help empower each and every one of my listeners and clients. So that we are all more educated, more informed and hence, can make better choices for us now and our long-term health.

So in today’s episode, I want to talk about what do we do if we feel we have no options - and how do we navigate our health within the NHS and private sector?

Here is a link to the British Menopause Society where you can find a menopause specialist to whom your GP can refer you to.

https://thebms.org.uk/find-a-menopause-specialist/

Here are the highlights:

(03:29) How women arrive in menopause and how Lindsey can help them

(08:25) There are only just over 100 registered menopause clinics in the UK

(10:35) How can we help ourselves now?

(20:21) You can find a different GP to suit your specific needs

(24:18) At what point would a GP refer us?

(29:35) What we can do when we are on a long waiting list?

(42:37) I think the biggest thing that needs to happen is that we have an awareness of how low oestrogen can impact women

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme 

Facebook: @

Your actions and your daily habits are immensely powerful. Let’s talk about avoiding triggers, getting to know ourselves a little better, and the role of diet and exercise. I am not going to tell you how and what to eat or how to move, instead, we are going to explore what new micro-changes you can make to get the benefit we seek.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:50 Identifying stress triggers and developing routines to reduce anxiety.

10:10 Consistency with exercise is important for health, especially for cancer survivors.

15:52 90-second Instagram reels oversimplify health advice.

20:04 Focus on optimising one meal for 2 months, such as breakfast, for a significant impact on diet. 

24:00 Start with small changes, like preparing snack bowls for better eating habits. Avoid spending on new recipes or fancy ingredients.

30:07 Reduce stress with 10-minute daily meditation.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

I wanted to find out what it’s like, going from being a breast cancer surgeon who knew nothing about the menopause, to a breast cancer patient who was put into the menopause?

Many of you will know the brilliant Dr. Liz O’Riordan who is very active on social media talking about her own experience of cancer whilst also helping educate her followers on how best to navigate a cancer journey. In today’s episode we talk about the loss of our identity and the loss of many other things that come with cancer, and we also talk about creating a new life for ourselves. A different one. Not better, sometimes not worse even. Just different. 

Thank you Liz for your honesty!

Here are the links for Liz:

Books - ‘Under The Knife’ and ‘The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer’ 

Instagram @oriordanliz

https://herspirit.co.uk/virtual-swim-challenge-swim-for-her-by-zoggs/

https://wewearboost.com prostheses

https://www.unobra.co.uk/pages/our-shop - unobra bikinis

https://eno.eco/shop/ - unobra bikinis

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

10:54 Struggles with cancer and identity in healthcare.

14:25 Chemo fog affects work and mental health.

20:10 Breast cancer loss, grief, acceptance, and moving forward.

22:11 Pressing tweet button changed life, garnered support.

25:31 Protecting mental health by disconnecting from social media.

33:47 Accepting uncertainty, striving for health amidst risk.

39:36 Educate cancer patients on long-term menopause effects.

42:13 Exercise reduces cancer risk and improves treatment outcomes.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram

There are so many conversations about the benefits of fasting - but what does that mean for someone after cancer? Is there any data to support that fasting has a benefit on someone’s overall health, menopausal symptoms or even better, cancer survival rates?

In today’s episode, I speak to cancer survivor, nutritional scientist and integrative oncology practitioner Toral Shah. Toral will dive deep into the understanding of metabolic health, insulin resistance and how that links us back to fasting.

Attached are the scientific papers we mentioned in the conversation and a link to Toral’s course:

Fasting and chemo:

https://oncologypro.esmo.org/meeting-resources/esmo-congress/effects-of-short-term-fasting-on-quality-of-life-as-an-add-on-option-during-chemotherapy#:~:text=Growing%20pre%2D%20and%20clinical%20evidence,reducing%20toxicity%20and%20adverse%20effects.

Fasting and cancer:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6938162/#:~:text=At%20the%20molecular%20level%2C%20fasting,%2C29%2C56%2C124.

Integrative breast cancer course: https://www.theurbankitchen.co.uk/courses 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction

08:02 Fasting benefits explained.

12:19 Challenges women face with menopause and periods.

15:45 Metabolic health is defined by 5 key markers.

22:21 Menopausal insulin resistance leads to weight gain.

23:25 Postmenopausal body struggles with metabolic health, fasting.

31:22 Fasting reduces breast cancer risk, and promotes health.

39:18 Intermittent fasting benefits gut health and repair.

43:21 Body health beyond appearance: focus on essentials.

47:26 Fasting may improve cancer treatment and outcomes.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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:

“I'd like to know about reducing dementia risks when not on HRT. I’m really worried about my brain health.” 

This is what many women who are dealing with early onset menopause worry about especially when HRT is not an option. 

We have the fab Barbie Boule on the podcast today explains to us how we can reduce our risks of Alzheimer’s by over 50%. 

“How? What? Without HRT?” I hear you say. 

Get a pen pad and paper out. Although Barbie is a registered dietician we speak about so much more than food.

You can find Barbie here:

hello@barbieboules.com

https://barbieboules.com/

Book mentions:

Diet for the MIND by Dr Martha Clare Morris 

The Brain Health Kitchen Dr Annie Fenn

Podcast Mention:

Episode 42: Help - I Can’t Sleep 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Welcome to the Menopause and Cancer Podcast, with me Dani Binnington. I'm inviting guest speakers and menopause experts to help us find solutions to our symptoms. We will talk about everything from mental health to physical health, sexual health, to bone health and everything in between. Nothing is off limits.

Managing menopause after cancer diagnosis is certainly a different ball game. It can make you feel quite lost, not knowing what your options are or who to ask for help. Often we feel as if we're left out of the bigger menopause conversation. But I'm hoping this will change. I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis, age 33.

So if you are in menopause after cancer, then I hope my podcast is not only going to be informative, helping you have a better menopause experience, but it'll also show you that you're not alone.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe to the podcast, share with those that you think will benefit from hearing it and leave a review.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme 

Facebook: @healthywholeme 

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

Most of the time when you look for information about which herbal supplements might be useful in helping with symptoms for menopause after cancer, the advice is “Caution - there might be contraindications”! Additionally, 100% of all the people who responded to our survey on social media said they were worried about contraindications and the safety of herbal supplements. 

In today's conversation, we want to find out what is safe and what is not safe for those affected by cancer. Turmeric, ashwagandha, red clover and soy supplements can have a positive effect but we want to know who needs to stay away from them.

I am delighted to get to the bottom of this with Dr. Vera Martins who is a naturopath and herbalist with a PhD in cancer biology and Rebekah Brown, founder of co-community MPowder, a company dedicated to providing insight as well as innovation to ensure we can all ‘meno-well’.

We will look at what we know - what we don’t know and make sense of what that might mean for you.

This is the resource we have put together for you with all the studies and data we mentioned in this conversation: https://mpowder.store/pages/cancer-and-menopause

You can also find a Cancer Booklet which you can download as a PDF.

It’s a great resource!

Share it widely!

Here is a link to MPowder https://mpowder.store/ 

Do your research, support yourself and be curious! And as Rebekah says, be cynical :-)

This is another useful resource for you: https://menopauseandcancer.org/herbal-medicine-for-menopause-after-cancer-current-research/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

12:34 Turmeric: anti-inflammatory, boosts mood, researched, possible contraindications.

21:29 Ashwagandha research shows benefits for menopausal symptoms.

27:26 Menopause journey led to embracing lifestyle interventions.

32:39 Naturopath as health partner with diverse tools.

38:52 Limited research on soy and red clover.

43:16 Frustration and hope for supplement regulations.

49:35 Antioxidants can help, but be cautious.

57:20 Consistency and whole food for health support.

01:00:21 Consider turmeric, ashwagandha, red clover, whole food supplement.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org ...

A few months ago I recorded a solo episode on alcohol - it was called ‘Alcohol and Me’ in which I shared my own thinking around drinking, not drinking and the difficulty that comes with not drinking socially. After its release, we had so many messages from listeners asking for more on this topic.

So, I am delighted to introduce you to Rosamund Dean, a journalist, author, mummy and breast cancer survivor. Rosamund is well known for her recent book Reconstruction, but did you know she also wrote a book on mindful drinking? 

I promise this will be a non-judgemental conversation full of Rosamund’s super helpful tips.

• How to drink less if you’re not ready to give up?
• How to handle social situations?
• How to cut booze out completely?
• Do you drink because you do not want to say no to your friends and perhaps disappoint others?
• How not to feel guilty if you’ve had a drink?
• How to reframe drinking less and looking at the incredible positives that a ‘less-booze-filled-life’ has to offer!

Rosamund’s book Reconstruction: The new breast cancer guide that will boost your well-being and protect your physical and mental health post-diagnosis can be found here and her book Mindful Drinking is here.

You can find out more about Rosamund on her blog here.

Episode mention: Alcohol and Me 

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

Your life is filled with too much business, too much hurry, too much stress. Just for a moment, let go of all that.

This is a wonderful meditation if you’re feeling frazzled, as if life is pulling you into all sorts of directions.

Sometimes it really doesn’t take much, but to give our mind a little break.

You can take this mediation at any time during your week and during the day. It is short and will provide you with just enough down-time to re-energise whenever you need it.

DISCLAIMER: The meditations practices on this podcast are not a replacement for or a form of therapy, nor are they intended to cure, treat, or diagnose medical conditions. 

Always make sure to listen to meditations in an environment that is safe. 

Do not listen to recordings while driving a car or operating any kind of machinery. 

Also, do not listen to hypnosis recordings when drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

Here are the highlights:

(00:37) Introduction

(02:40) Meditation 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

To say that stress ‘just isn’t good for us’ is a vast understatement.

Chronic stress can lead to brain changes which can contribute to anxiety, depression and addiction.

It can contribute to high blood pressure and raise the risks of heart attacks and strokes.

It can contribute to weight gain and can even contribute to causing brittle bones!

So before you drive yourself nuts and add more stress to your life by trying to have the best diet or lifting heavy weights, we must also address our stress levels. Because if we don’t it’s all a pretty counterproductive plan that doesn’t really serve us well.

When I first said I’m going to add meditations to my The Menopause And Cancer Podcast, my team kind of don’t quite know what I was banging in about.

But it’s this:

No menopause medication or complementary therapy or physical activity will be as beneficial as it can be when our stress levels are through the roof.

And we know meditation is proven to help. There’s no doubt!

And the really really cool thing is this:

Everyone can do it.

It’s free.

No, you don’t need to have a blank mind.

Nope, you don’t need to sit cross-legged and burn incense!

All you need to do is press play.

Enjoy

Here’s the LINK to Dr Annice Mukherjee’s book The Complete Guide to the Menopause: Your Toolkit to Take Control and Achieve Life-Long Health 

Here’s the LINK to the Study by the Cleveland Clicic I mention on the show.

DISCLAIMER: The meditation practices on this podcast are not a replacement for or a form of therapy, nor are they intended to cure, treat, or diagnose medical conditions. 

Always make sure to listen to meditations in an environment that is safe. 

Do not listen to recordings while driving a car or operating any kind of machinery. 

Also, do not listen to hypnosis recordings when drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

Here are the highlights:

(00:37) Introduction

(07:31) Meditation 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s...

We are often so wrapped up in our own experiences that we have little time to learn about others. Yet, it is the thinking and learning outside the box that can often help us move forward the most.

Erectile dysfunction is a side effect of some treatments for prostate cancer for men. Just like we know low libido can affect women. But what are the differences between men and women? What help is available for men? And do women have the same support?

This conversation is all about learning and our good friend and therapist Kevin Ford is the most inspirational person we can learn from. 

Listen up. You’ll get goosebumps from his honesty alone.

Kevin Ford can be contacted for therapy and advice here:

kevinfordtherapy.com

The LGBTQ support group Kevin mentions is: https://www.lgbt-walnut.org.uk/

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Managing menopause after cancer needs a multi-faceted two-pronged approach. With that, I mean that most likely doing one thing alone won’t be enough and that we need to be proactive ourselves AND have the support from our medical team. I see the best results when women apply these strategies. 

So let’s look at who that medical team is for you, how an open mindset is going to give you the best outcome and why you really must find a community with shared experiences.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:03 Consider all options, influences, and judgments.

09:36 Seek to understand diverse experiences, find support, and empower oneself.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Research shows that only 4% of cancer survivors meet lifestyle recommendations. Dietician and board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition Krystle Zuniga discusses what these lifestyle recommendations are with us on the show today. 

Have you been told what they are?

For solutions, of how we can help the 96% that currently don’t follow the recommendations that could potentially reduce their risks of a cancer recurrence, we need to understand that there is a gap between guidelines and behaviour. We need more discussions, less barriers to referrals for support and more awareness. 

And it starts with you and I today.

Krystle Zuniga is a US based registered and licensed dietitian and a board certified specialist in oncology nutrition and the Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at UT Austin. She is incredibly good at telling us exactly what the evidence says and where there is a lack of it. 

This is a powerful conversation for sure - giving us more agency in times of uncertainty. 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

04:04 Curiosity about lifestyle recommendations and cancer survivorship.

10:27 Cancer treatment impacts daily life and nutrition.

13:39 Encouraging seeking help for health and well-being.

23:33 Busy days may lead to processed snacks.

25:00 Ultra processed foods are unhealthy, limit consumption.

28:09 Limit alcohol intake for cancer prevention, avoid it.

33:12 Carnivore diet raises cardiovascular disease risk concerns.

35:21 Limited awareness of alcohol-cancer link, booze-free trend.

40:48 Cancer research resources for in-depth information.

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

Here is the link for the World Cancer Research Fund International https://www.wcrf.org/

Connect with Krystle:

You can find more about Krystle’s work here www.canvernutritionhq.com and here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancernutritionhq/

Welcome to the first episode of our menopause after cancer crash course! I want to sum up all the treatment options available to you in bite-sized videos so that they can give you an overview right at the beginning of the year. We will then invite lots of experts to help dive deeper int many of the topics - but an overview is helpful in knowing that we have many options!

Before we start looking at solutions, we have to look at where we are at. What are your current symptoms? Join me for this symptom checker exercise.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:23 Identifying menopause symptoms and their effects.

08:52 Embracing subtle changes, connecting with ourselves.

10:48 Embrace uncertainty, live creatively, and tap into potential.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

On today’s episode Dr. Lindsey Thomas, British Menopause Society Specialist and GP is helping us understand “Where is my nearest menopause clinic?”.

Each week I get emails from women who say they have had absolutely no help in managing their menopausal symptoms after their cancer diagnosis. Many echo what I have been experiencing myself - and that is total confusion of what’s what?

If you’re in the UK and you are wondering who can help you manage your menopausal symptoms after your cancer diagnosis, then this episode is for you.

• What can your GP do for you? 
• Do you have access to a menopause specialist on the NHS?
• If so, who can refer you?
• How long is the waiting list and what can I do in the meantime?
• How can I choose a private menopause specialist?

Dr. Thomas can be found at the NHS specialist menopause clinic in Leeds and she is also a menopause specialist at Myla Health.

https://www.mylahealth.co.uk/dr-lindsey-thomas

I have made it my mission to help empower each and every one of my listeners so that we are all more educated, more informed and hence, can make better choices for us and our long-term health.

I hope this episode is helpful.

And joint walking challenge! What are you waiting for? https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raisely.com/

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Today I am joined by Helen Hyndman and Tracie Miles from the charity Eve Appeal about the importance of understanding gynaecological cancers and the impact of menopause on women's health. Chances are your treatment for gynae cancer has induced menopause. Chances are, that no-one helped you in understanding how you can manage that. We discuss personal experiences with surgical menopause, the significance of pre-surgery planning, and the role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 

We also touch on the new NICE guidelines and the resources available for women navigating menopause after cancer treatment.

Here are the resources we speak about:

British Gynaecological Cancer society new statement on Management of menopausal symptoms

https://www.bgcs.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/BGCS-BMS-Guidelines-on-Management-of-Menopausal-Symptoms-after-Gynaecological-Cancer.pdf

Eve Appeal: https://eveappeal.org.uk/about-us/

NICE 2024 Guidance: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23/resources/menopause-identification-and-management-pdf-1837330217413

https://www.bgcs.org.uk/wp-content/uploas/2024/08/BGCS-BMS-Guidelines-on-Mahttps://www.bgcs.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/BGCS-BMS-Guidelines-on-Management-of-Menopausal-Symptoms-after-Gynaecological-Cancer.pdfnagement-of-Menopausal-Symptoms-after-Gynaecological-Cancer.pdf 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

12:24 Oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone balance affects women.

15:46 Surgical menopause: Lack of pre-surgery conversations.

17:40 Finding menopause guidance online, exploring management options.

23:06 Advocate menopause awareness and comprehensive support options.

31:32 Encourage clear communication with GP for support.

34:32 BGCS updates on HRT evidence and guidelines.

38:11 Educating on cancer, menopause, influencing medical research.

42:11 Seek resources and share knowledge on 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

The incredible women on the show today are like you, podcast listeners, they are also in our current Empowered Menopause after cancer program. Each one is truly amazing and they are here to share their stories with you. 

I am sure will feel much less alone after listening to this!

- Just finished active treatment?

- 10 years on and don’t know where to turn?

- Just started on an AI and the pains come crashing in?

- Brain fog stopped you from working?

- Undecided of what to do next?

- Want to feel empowered without HRT?

We’ve got you covered!

Join us in real person!

Celebrate the launch of Menopause and Cancer with us: Hear from a panel of menopause specialists and meet others who get you!

Tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/menopause-and-cancer-launch-event-tickets-684864176187?aff=oddtdtcreator

Enrol in our next Empowered Menopause after cancer program here: https://www.empoweredmenopause.co.uk/groupinformationpage

Or you can email Dani dani@healthywholeme.com to see if the program is right for you.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Menopause sneaks in as an uninvited and unwelcome guest to a house already dealing with so much. Join me, a whole group of women in our community and life coach Sanela Lukanovic for this interactive session.

- How do we allow ourselves to feel when it’s all very scary?

- Emotions - friends or foes? Uncover what blocks you from feeling all your feelings.

- How to deal with anger, overwhelm and shame?

- Becoming your own best friend - how to listen to, learn from and let go of our emotions.

You can find Senior Leadership and Life Coach Sanela Lukanovic here: www.sanelalukanovic.co.uk

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro.

06:45 Challenges of emotional labour in decision making.

10:59 Struggling with ongoing never-ending emotional conflicts.

13:54 Societal pressure to manage and show emotions.

26:29 Neglecting emotions fills and blocks emotional basket.

27:30 Joy is fleeting, difficult to hold onto.

32:33 Recognising and processing emotions through body tapping.

42:01 Relief in not always needing to improve.

49:05 Focus on gratitude. 

50:29 Tapping on meridian points can help.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

A huge thank you to our partners Oxford Hormone Clinic for helping us get this episode out to all of you! Their support means so much to us. All their details are in the show notes below. 

Ever wondered if collagen is safe for you? 

There is a lot of talk about collagen out there and some people say it really helps them with their skin, joints and even energy levels. And then we hear stories of concern as collagen has been linked to cancer. 

In today’s episode, I am joined by Dr. Nina Fuller Shavel to answer this once and for all. So that we know the facts to make empowered choices for ourselves.

You can find Dr. Fuller-Shavel here https://www.drninafullershavel.com/

Her new book “Integrative Oncology in Breast Cancer Care’ can be found HERE.

Download your FREE Getting Started Guide here: https://menopauseandcancer.org/getting-started-guide/

Episode highlights:

00:00 Intro

04:53 Collagen benefits for joint and skin health.

08:04 Long-term safety unknown; worth trialling cautiously.

10:08 Vegan supplements may support collagen, but unproven.

16:06 Dietary amino acids impact collagen production differently.

17:11 Taking collagen during cancer treatment, consult your doctor.

24:42 Diverse toolkit for joint health including Rosehip.

27:41 Empowerment comes from variety.

Thank you to our sponsors of this episode: https://www.oxfordhormoneclinic.com/

The team at The Oxford Hormone Clinic are passionate in helping people with a history of cancer. They are a holistic clinic focusing on informed choice regarding all aspects of menopause care; from lifestyle advice, over the counter supplements, to Body Identical Hormone replacement, always based upon British Menopause Society (BMS) and NICE guidelines.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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:

Welcome to today’s most practical podcast episode, where we’re diving into one of the most common and confusing questions for those navigating menopause after cancer: "How should I be eating?"

We know how overwhelming it can be to understand what works best for your body after cancer treatment, especially when menopause throws in extra challenges. 

That’s why we’re thrilled to bring you this incredible workshop featuring Julie Webb, a leading nutritionist and expert in menopause and cancer nutrition.

She’ll answer questions like:

• Can diet help improve menopause symptoms like anxiety, flushing, and fatigue?
• Is there a "menopause diet"?
• How can I eat to support my heart and bone health?

Many women also join me in our community so you can learn from their stories as well.

Links mentioned in this episode: 

https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/how-to-prevent-cancer/

https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/educational-hub/topic/calcium-calculator

Here is the protein document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1F2zH8EzadABROICxLNzI27J-RN8-l4jV1dXg0RqvsK0/edit?usp=sharing

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro. 

14:15 Menopause Diet for Cancer Survivors

17:40 Easy Ways to Eat More Vegetables

27:37 Protein Intake for Health Balance

34:09 Nut and Seed Fibre Content

38:47 Protein and Calcium Intake Guidance

45:56 Sugar Consumption Roller Coaster

52:50 "Mindful Eating for Treats"

56:50 Planning Positive Actions for Upcoming Months

01:05:52 Small Steps for Diet Success

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

On today’s episode two fabulous ladies from our community, Caroline Trend and Lucy Pedrick, discuss their experiences with menopause after cancer treatment. They highlight the lack of information and support they received from healthcare professionals and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. They share their top tips on managing tamoxifen side effects and they emphasise the need for a holistic approach to menopause care for cancer survivors and the importance of personalised support and resources.

Dani speaks about the need for better communication between doctors and patients, as well as the importance of finding a supportive community. 

Caroline shares her passion for creating a clothing range for people who have had mastectomies, and Lucy emphasises the importance of self-care and finding a balance in daily life.

Please fill in Caroline’s survey on her mastectomy swimwear here: http://mrstrend.com

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro.

03:51 Support and resources for dealing with menopause.

09:28 Menopause, cancer history.

14:35 Research before choosing a healthcare provider.

18:16 Mindfulness course and gratitude diary for positivity.

24:14 Seeking and understanding the impact of menopause.

26:41 Specify brand names on repeat prescriptions to avoid errors.

29:23 Redefining the impact of menopause after cancer.

34:59 How can we be more constructive?

38:29 Raising awareness about widespread impact of cancer.

41:46 Support groups facilitate meeting like-minded individuals.

43:01 Designer creating comfortable clothing for cancer survivors.

46:49 Meditation helps combat afternoon fatigue and rejuvenates.

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

The walking challenge I mention is here for you: https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Dani Binnington shares a deeply personal conversation on this week’s episode with our inspiring guest Elizabeth. Elizabeth shares her remarkable journey of how her cancer diagnosis at 30 confronted her with her desire to become a mum. Elizabeth talks us through her journey with IVF as a single mum by choice, how she coped when life gave her breast cancer for a second time around and why there are many ways of creating a family.

This story is full of hope and options and Elizabeth and Dani explore the steps to surrogacy as a single mum.

Thank you so much for listening to this episode. If you’re ready to see how Menopause And Cancer can help you on your personal health and wellness journey and want to learn more, go to https://menopauseandcancer.org/ to learn more. We have all of our free resources, programs, social links and more available for you there. Stay curious.

Walk with us. Join the challenge https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raisely.com/

P.S. If this episode triggers upsetting feelings for you, it can be helpful to talk these through with someone. There are organisations that can support you, such as the British Infertility Counselling Association who can offer more support. https://www.bica.net 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Now I wonder: What do you call your ‘down below’, your ‘front bottom’?

I am so excited to be speaking to two fantastic ladies today: menopause specialist and GP Dr. Charlotte Gooding and Samantha Evans, co-founder of Jo Divine, an online sex toy company.

We talk about vaginal health, how this can be affected in menopause after cancer and what we can do to find symptom relief.

Vaginal atrophy

Painful sex

Vaginal dryness

Urinary symptoms

Pleasure

Lubes, sex toys

The lot…

Sam has a professional background in nursing, works with many healthcare professionals in the NHS and private practice and I love her open manner. She is also called the the Lube Queen - and she’s just brilliant!

This is Jo Divine https://www.jodivine.com/ and you can also find Sam on instagram here https://www.instagram.com/samtalkssex/

Charlotte Gooding is a GP with a special interest in Menopause care. Charlotte is based in a NHS GP practice in Newcastle where she is lead for Women’s Health. She is also a member of the BMS and works in private practice at Menopausecare https://menopausecare.co.uk/dipl-team-member/associate-dr-charlotte-gooding/

I really wanted to speak to Charlotte today as I think her special interest in sexual health and vaginal health is just great.

You can also find Charlotte on instagram herehttps://www.instagram.com/drcharlottegooding/?hl=en

Here are the highlights:

(04:31) We don’t teach people the accurate names

(05:50) Sam the Lube Queen

(10:08)  What happens to our vulvas and vaginas when the oestrogen levels drop?

(16:03) You need an intimate regime

(22:28) The difference between water-based and oil-based lubricants

(30:56) When would I need to start a moisturising routine?

(32:55) Vaginal oestrogens

(41:54) Sex toys

(58:10 Laser treatment

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme 

Facebook: @healthywholeme 

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website:

In this week’s episode of The Menopause and Cancer podcast, Dani Binnington is joined by Dawn Totty. Dawn shares her personal experience of having to stop HRT because of her endometrial cancer diagnosis, and the unexpected life transformations that take place with a cancer diagnosis. Dawn speaks about her quest to find out her own risks vs. benefits of going back on HRT after her particular cancer diagnosis.

Dawn’s story is a testament to the power of self-advocacy as a patient and the incredible advantage that has for us.

For anyone who has not yet joined the walking challenge, here is the link: https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raisely.com/

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Just because your doctor might have advised you that hormone replacement therapy might not be an option for you, this does not mean your doctor won't be able to prescribe you other medications that can help. 

Here is your summary of non-hormonal prescription options for managing menopause symptoms after cancer treatment which includes a variety of medications such as gabapentin, pregabalin, clonidine, oxybutynin and antidepressants like SSRIs, and SNRIs, which can help alleviate symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, anxiety, sleep and bladder and vaginal problems. 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:18 Antidepressants can help with menopausal symptoms after cancer.

06:58 Antidepressant effectiveness varies; talk to your doctor.

11:43 Prescribable non-hormonal vaginal options for comfort.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

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 density
• When to get a bone density scan (DEXA scan)
• Medical treatments available for osteoporosis
• Holistic approaches: diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:27 Early Menopause Affects Bone Density

10:16 Aromatase Inhibitors: Risks and Guidelines

15:15 DEXA Scan Waiting Times

20:27 Vitamin D, Calcium, and NOG Guidelines

24:20 Bisphosphonates: Managing Bone Loss

27:32 Managing Medication

34:50 Calcium and Exercise for Bone Health

38:06 Building Stronger Bones with Weight Training

41:37 Discussing Cancer Treatment's Impact on Bones

Resources & Links:

Find Dr Hum here: https://www.mylahealth.co.uk/dr-olivia-hum

Calculate 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_BwE

NOGG 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_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

This might be the most powerful practice you can do ALL year! 

Do you struggle with setting clear goals for the coming year? 

Or perhaps you are like me and you sometimes can't remember quite how much you have achieved this year. 

One thing is for sure, new year’s resolutions don’t work, we all know that. But starting a new year without any thought even? That doesn’t sit so well either. 

Join me for a powerful practice, one that I have done for several years myself, to get you super clear and focused on how you want to move into the new year and also feeling full of gratitude for the year you have had (even if it was a tough one!).

You will need a journal or notepad and pen and a quiet space in your house. 

I will guide you through a series of exercises and questions which will help reflect on this past year, with the intention to give you much more clarity going forward.

This is a potent practice that will support you in defining the lessons and blessings of 2022 so you can manifest an absolutely amazing 2023!

Wear comfortable clothing, make yourself cosy and make sure you will be undisturbed.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

Being able to work is something that most cancer survivors want to do for many reasons, not least because it provides financial independence, but mainly because it provides a sense of normality. 

But how do we do so in a constructive way?

What are my rights?

And what if menopause becomes an added problem? 

I am joined by Barbara Wilson, founder of Working With Cancer who explains what our rights are. What we can ask for? And who can help?

This conversation is for employees, employers, self-employed, job seekers, carers and health professionals. 

Here are the highlights:

(02:42) The services Working with Cancer provide

(06:03) The Equality Act

(07:12) Barbara’s cancer story

(13:13) Is cancer considered a disability?

(20:08) How do we navigate the cancer conversation with our employer?

(29:45) When applying for a new job how much do we have to say about our cancer diagnosis? 

(33:51) What can you request at work if you are suffering from severe menopause symptoms?

Connect with Barbara:

You can find out more about Working With Cancer and their services here: https://workingwithcancer.co.uk/

There is a whole section of useful resources.

They are also on Instagram @workingwithcanceruk

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

Many of our listeners are on a quest to improve their menopause symptoms and overall health, trying this and trying that. But as we all know, making lasting lifestyle changes can be tough—especially after cancer treatment. In this conversation, we explore how to turn good intentions into real, lasting habits that will help improve your health, reduce the risk of recurrence, and manage menopause symptoms.

I speak with Nienke Lees, a GP who is passionate about lifestyle medicine and helping her patients succeed. We discuss the power of SMART goals and the three essential components of behaviour change that can help you build healthier routines in your daily life. If you’ve ever struggled with making changes to your diet, exercise, or overall habits, this episode is for you.

Key Topics Covered:

• The challenges of making lifestyle changes after cancer treatment
• Nobody teaches us HOW to make changes
• The importance of lifestyle medicine in managing menopause symptoms
• How to set SMART goals to create lasting habits
• The three components of successful behavior change

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:07 Overcoming Barriers to Healthy Eating

12:52 Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

14:35 Building Confidence Through Lifestyle Changes

18:17 Overcoming Small Anxieties

20:23 Understanding and Changing Deep-Rooted Behaviours

32:12 Make your goals SMART

34:42 Habit Rewards Must Align with Goals

41:23 Climbing Your Health Ladder

44:18 Prioritise Impactful Changes

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

For more information on Dr. Nienke Lees, who is a medical doctor who offers health coaching alongside her work in the NHS, including a breast cancer recovery program, go here: https://www.thewholehealthmedic.co.uk/ or here on Instagram @thewholehealthmedic

In today’s episode, I am speaking to the incredible Stacey Owen.

Stacey and I met on the navigating menopause program last year which I co-curated and co-hosted with charity Trekstock. Together with a team of incredible experts and co-host Jemima Reynolds, head of health at Trekstock, we helped guide young adults in their 20s and 30s to work out a way forward, that’s right for them.

Stacey’s breast cancer treatment saw her go into a medically induced early menopause, aged 30, a common but often unspoken side-effect of hormone-receptive breast cancer treatments. At first, just grateful to be out of active cancer treatment, she didn’t realise how much the menopause and its symptoms were impacting her life. She says: “I felt like I was the only person going through this – I felt very alone, it was very isolating. I hardly spoke about it to anyone.”

Fast forward a year and a bit and Stacey was seen in Davina McCall’s second documentary, Sex, Mind and the Menopause.

What happened in the time between a very closed and hidden experience until showing up and speaking up on national TV is what I want to get to the bottom of in today's episode. What an incredible transformation!

I share Stacey’s frustration with the entire situation and the lack of discourse around the topic as a whole. She says: “I was kind of so annoyed at all women. For the fact that the menopause is so common, it’s everywhere. Yet, when I stepped into the menopause world, there was nothing and I was like ‘Well, what’s everyone else been doing?’ It’s quite sad really.”

Stacey is also an illustrator and you can find some of her incredible artwork on @thecancercells on Instagram.

Find out more about Trekstock: https://www.trekstock.com/

Here are the highlights:

(06:40) Stacey’s journey from diagnosis

(12:25) How much awareness did she have of the side effects from her medications

(18:41) Getting information should not be patient-led

(22:09) Discovering Trekstock

(30:08) What did Stacey learn?

(33:45) Davina McCall’s documentary, Sex, Mind and the Menopause

(41:56) What advice Stacey would give to people diagnosed with cancer in their 20s and 30s

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme 

Facebook: @healthywholeme 

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: ...

Did you know that exercise can reduce your risk of a cancer recurrence by up to 30%?! 

In a recent post in my Facebook group I asked my community of women how much exercise had been discussed with them by their health care professionals and what their biggest hurdles were. And we had a flurry of messages within a few minutes. Many echoing the same sentiment:

- It’s been very difficult to get support advice - nothing from my healthcare team.

- I’m struggling with fatigue and muscle pain, should I push through it?

- What kind of exercises help joint pain when you're on aromatase inhibitors after breast cancer? 

- I have been told absolutely nothing other than given a leaflet with about four exercises on it for after surgery, and perhaps even discouraged from exercising as I need to “rest”.

- Not much support at all where I am. No exercise referral programmes, no real advice given and if it wasn’t for me being a cardiac nurse I wouldn’t know anything about exercise rehab.

I am delighted to speak to two fantastic experts on the podcast today. Professor Anna Campbell and Sarah Newman. Anna will talk us through the research her and her team conducted and exactly what that means for us in everyday life. Sarah will talk us through her own cancer diagnosis and how she became a CanRehab exercise specialist, now helping others become active.

They both discuss how we can access some of these fantastic services and what it is we can each do to reap some of these benefits.

You can find more about Prof Anna Campbell’s work here:

https://www.canrehab.com/about-us/background/

Sarah can be sound here: https://www.getmeback.uk/

Keep checking as Sarah offers fantastic group programs for women after breast cancer and runs classes for free at Future Dreams House charity.

Here are the highlights:

(03:54) Anna’s story

(05:46) Sarah’s story

(09:33) What are the true benefits of exercise

(13:55) One of the big things that exercise does is it reduces the risk of cancer coming back

(19:16) How do I need to exercise and how much?

(26:09) Sarah’s recommendations

(30:01) The psychological benefits

(34:56) Where can listeners find more information 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and...

Episode 100 is a special celebration, and this time, it's all about you! We're flipping the script, as Dani takes a turn in the hot seat and gets interviewed by one of the remarkable women who work tirelessly to bring this show to you every week. Tune in for heartfelt messages from our community, candid discussions about the podcast's behind-the-scenes, and reflections on what it means for us to reach this milestone together.

If you’re thinking of doing your own podcast, I’d say DO IT! You can contact Phoebe here https://winteraudio.co.uk/

Download your FREE Getting Started Guide here: https://menopauseandcancer.org/getting-started-guide/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

00:56 Celebrating 100 episodes of Menopause and Cancer.

07:17 Celebrating success, journey, reflection, encouragement, life stages.

12:18 Voice note from Rachel.

14:39 Passionate networker celebrating human stories and connections.

19:34 Voice note from Terri.

21:37 Cancer impact lingers, support available for life.

28:43 Voice note from Susie.

31:57 Passionate about work, excited about projects. Creating change.

37:33 Cook together, enjoy socialising with friends.

41:49 Voice note from Siobhan 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Today on the podcast I am speaking to a brilliant guest and oh, what a story she has to tell. Toral Shah is a Nutritional Scientist, Integrative Medicine Practitioner, Health writer and Consultant, as well as the Founder of The Urban Kitchen.

Toral has been diagnosed with breast cancer not just once, but three times.

I’m going to try and find out from Toral how she navigated with being diagnosed three times, and also how she handled Tamoxifen on 3 separate occasions and what she can share with us.

I know this is something so many of you are struggling with. How to navigate the sometimes debilitating side effects of long-term anti-hormone treatments is a challenging discussion and Toral is an incredibly wise and empathetic person in talking us through this.

I hope this episode will be helpful to you.

Here are the highlights:

(04:31) Toral’s story

(12:04) Toral’s second and third diagnosis

(16:08) It’s made me more determined to help people with cancer

(18:15) Tamoxifen side effects

(32:17) How stress, diet, and lifestyle can impact your life and cancer

(37:55) Science doesn’t have all the answers

(42:26) Doing exercise throughout breast cancer chemotherapy can reduce side effects and toxicity

(44:45) Should we be eating soy?

(48:46) People need to really connect with their bodies

Connect with Toral:

Website: https://www.theurbankitchen.co.uk/pages/toral-shah

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theurbankitchen/

Integrative Breast Cancer Course for Patients: https://www.theurbankitchen.co.uk/products/integrative-medicine-6-week-course-for-breast-cancer-patients 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme 

Facebook: @healthywholeme 

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

In today’s episode, we tackle a situation many of us in the menopause and cancer community face: What do you do when doctors’ opinions divide? 

It’s a common experience to receive conflicting advice from healthcare professionals, and that can be confusing, frustrating and scary especially when you’re navigating menopause after a cancer diagnosis.

I am joined by author and breast cancer survivor Rosamund Dean who has made this experience herself. We are going to mull over what we can do to navigate a challenging situation like this. 

We will talk about:

• Why doctors may disagree on treatment plans and how to understand those differences.
• How to advocate for yourself when medical advice feels unclear or overwhelming.
• The importance of second (or third) opinions and how to approach them with an open mind.
• Practical strategies for researching treatment options and weighing the pros and cons.
• Community insights from women who’ve faced similar challenges, sharing what helped them make informed decisions.

Episode Highlights:

00:00Intro.

05:47 Five months of chemo, mastectomy, radiotherapy, capecitabine.

09:41 Early menopause increases bone health concerns.

11:48 Oncologist encourages seeking second opinions for treatment.

17:40 Menopause isn't always initial focus when treating cancer.

22:53 Meeting about ovary removal due to family history

34:13 Healthy diet: Vegetables, minimal processed, quality meat.

38:28 We all muddle through uncertainty together.

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

Rosamund’s book ReConstruction is here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reconstruction-rebuild-breast-cancer-diagnosis/dp/0008585202

Rosamund’s Substack is here https://rosamunddean.substack.com/

A big thanks to our trusted sponsor, The Better Menopause. I’m excited to share their amazing product, The Better Gut with you. Most women don’t realize that gut health and menopause symptoms are intrinsically linked—keeping your gut happy is the foundation for overall health, through all stages of life. The Better Gut is a daily capsule packed with a unique, science-backed probiotic blend designed to survive stomach acid, reach your gut alive and help improve symptoms such as bloating, hot flushes and anxiety. 

Go check them out - The Better Gut is a big help for many https://thebettermenopause.com/products/better-gut?selling_plan=690396627248

Do you wake up at 3am and can’t fall back asleep? Or do you struggle to fall asleep? Has your sleep changed since you’re on long-term cancer treatment?

Our guest today is the incredible Dr Zoe Schaedel who is a sleep AND menopause expert. She has extensive experience in helping cancer patients both in the NHS and privately and she will talk to us through everything there is to know: from sleeping pills to strategies. 

Regardless of how long you have been sleeping poorly. Regardless of why you think you can’t sleep properly. Listen to this - there is hope!

You can find Zoe at The Good Sleep Clinic here https://goodsleep.clinic

Or at Myla Health https://www.mylahealth.co.uk/dr-zoe-schaedel 

Book mentions:

How to Beat Insomnia and Sleep Problems One Step at a Time by Kirstie Anderson 

The One-week Insomnia Cure: Learn to Solve Your Sleep Problems by Jason Ellis

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Empowering you to transform your life. 

Did you know that there are 34 randomised control trials (the golden standard of trials!) to show the incredible health benefits that yoga has for cancer survivors? Research tells us that the impact of yoga on the quality of life for cancer survivors ranged from moderate to high! That’s a lot more than many medications you might have prescribed to you!

I am joined by the pioneer for teaching yoga to those affected by cancer and that is Vicky Fox.

You can join Vicky’s weekly online classes here - most are free to attend https://vickyfox-yoga.com/classes or join one of her yoga teacher trainings to support others going through cancer. 

Find Vicky on Instagram here: @yogaforcancer

And if you don’t believe me when I say yoga is the most incredibly healing tool, then have a look at the research yourself here ;-)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38426042/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

03:37 How Vicky started free yoga classes for cancer survivors.

06:44 Reflect on yoga, find the right fit.

12:10 Yoga benefits physical well-being and relieves some side effects.

14:01 Yoga opens the door to breath, mindfulness, and meditation.

17:01 Exercise is crucial for healthcare and empowerment.

23:08 Yoga improves bone quality and strength.

29:26 Dani and Vicky share physical and emotional challenges.

34:17 Supporting people with osteoporosis, and lymphedema through safe practice.

37:08 Yoga connects inward and outward community experiences.

38:33 Self-kindness in yoga practice is important.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Today on the podcast I am delighted to speak to the knowledgable Dr Hannah Short. Hannah, after suffering from debilitating pre-menstrual symptoms her whole adult life had surgical menopause, which is what I want to talk about today.

A few years down the line Hannah not only shares her personal experience but also everything she has learned in her day-to-day work and she is also the co-author of The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause.

Hannah describes how hard that journey was and how her sudden menopause was really tricky to manage. And if a doctor with all their knowledge says so, well… it just shows how complex an issue this is!

And so I hope this episode will give you a better understanding of surgical menopause.

Hannah is a GP and accredited Specialist in Menopause & Premenstrual Disorders. She has a keen interest in the role of plant-based nutrition in health and we are also going to speak about that.

She lectures widely, providing education and information for both fellow healthcare professionals and the public.

With her book, The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause, Hannah and co-author Mandy Leonhardt want to offer support for every stage of your journey through early menopause and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. The book offers a road map to navigating the emotional and hormonal rollercoaster. 

Here are the highlights:

(03:33) Hannah’s debilitating issues with her periods

(12:56) Using complementary therapies

(16:09) Going through surgical menopause

(18:22) Premenstrual disorder

(25:25) Menopause as a result of cancer is obviously very different to natural menopause

(33:06) HRT post-cancer

(43:27) Do more exercise

(50:00) Plant-based diet

(01:09:07) You need to continuously put effort into your wellbeing

Connect with Hannah:

Website: https://drhannahshort.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.hannah.short/?hl=en

Hannah’s book: The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less...

The sixth episode in the HRT after breast cancer series features Lisa Colclough and Helen Widner, two breast cancer patients who decided to go down two very different routes. Helen decided to start testosterone pellet therapy whilst being on aromatase inhibitors, whilst Lisa decided to restart her HRT soon after her breast cancer treatment. 

This mini-series explores hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after breast cancer, a controversial and emotive subject. The conversation focuses on the further understanding of risks and benefits of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) or also MHT (menopause hormone therapy), the emotional impact on patients, and the different views among medical professionals.  

The goal is to provide understanding for patients seeking HRT after breast cancer and insight for doctors on how to move forward without robust evidence. Dani Binnington, host of the Menopause And Cancer podcast, and founder of the not-for-profit organisation Menopause And Cancer has spoken to hundreds of women who feel like they are in a void and have nowhere to turn to in discussing this difficult topic. Welcome to our HRT after breast cancer series.

In this episode we discuss:

What was the hardest part about menopause for each of them?

We explore why Helen and Lisa thought about using hormone replacement therapy after their breast cancer diagnosis.

Lisa discusses not being heard as a patient and why she was made to take action without her doctor’s support. 

Helen discusses the hurdles to accessing testosterone pellet therapy in the UK.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:13 Postmenopausal risk versus benefits of aromatase inhibitors.

08:36 Difficulties with tamoxifen, switched to HRT.

11:58 Brain fog impacted daily life, resembling dementia.

28:47 Desire for informed discussion about medical decisions.

35:45 Research led to considering testosterone implants with AI.

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

On today’s episode, we’re discussing why gut health matters after cancer.

Everyone seems to be talking about gut health but I want to understand the role of it for when you are in menopause, specifically after cancer. 

- How do I know I have a healthy gut? 

- Does gut health affect my bone health, my sleep, my everything? 

- And are probiotics the answer? 

From a poll in our Facebook group, I know that 30% of our listeners take a probiotic supplement already and 30% want to know more to make an informed decision. 

Today’s guest will help you understand the facts so that you can make the right choice for you. 

I’m delighted to welcome Jo Lyall onto the podcast today. Jo is a nutritional therapist with an incredible 360-degree view of female health. I also love her portfolio career, she’s co-founder of Better Menopause which launched a probiotic specifically for menopause. 

She’s a font of knowledge and has been able to pack so much information into today’s episode, I hope you’ve got your pen & paper ready.

You can find the science behind the Better Gut probiotics here: https://thebettermenopause.com/pages/the-science

And you can get in touch with Jo Lyall here: jo@thebettermenopause.com

Join our autumn 2023 walking challenge here https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raisely.com/

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

This might be the most powerful practice you can do ALL year!

Join me for a powerful practice, one that I have done for several years myself, to get you super clear and focused on how you want to move into the new year and also feeling full of gratitude for the year you have had (even if it was a tough one!).

You will need a journal or notepad and pen and a quiet space in your house.

I will guide you through a series of exercises and questions which will help reflect on this past year, with the intention to give you much more clarity going forward.

This is a potent practice that will support you in defining the lessons and blessings of 2023 so you can manifest an absolutely amazing 2024!

Wear comfortable clothing, make yourself cosy and make sure you will be undisturbed.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to prepare for a purposeful 90-minute reflection session.

06:01 Reflect on 2023, milestones, highlights, and lowlights.

14:10 Finding reward in work, change, and rest.

21:27 2023: Did you connect to your heart?

23:08 Reflect on personal growth and challenges in 2023.

27:41 Acknowledging accomplishments, and support in different areas.

34:12 Let go of fear, forgive, move forward.

42:25 Setting boundaries to share the mental load.

47:53 Affirmations for letting go and self-acceptance.

50:31 Use affirmations to ground and reconnect with self.

52:34 Gratitude exercise helped during challenging times.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

In today’s conversation, my guest Louise Baker, an applied neuroscience specialist and I explore the profound impact of fear so many of us experience when we are diagnosed with cancer. 

We delve into the neuroscience behind fear, discussing how the brain processes traumatic experiences and the physiological responses that accompany them. Most importantly, Louise offers practical techniques for calming the nervous system and managing anxiety. We explore various strategies through sensory movements and body language.

Louise Baker is an applied neuroscience specialist, an expert in hypnotherapy and psychotherapy and she provides transformative support to individuals and their families at the Brain Trust a charity, an organisation supporting brain cancer patients.

Louise’s meditations are here, try them: https://soundcloud.com/louise-baker-hypnotherapy

Thanks to our sponsors https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ Made For Life Organics - one of the most authentic skin-care brands that I have come across. They are true organic skin care products, hand-blended in Cornwall, with a unique mix of botanical ingredients combining science with nature. Go to https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ they are giving our community 20% off with MENO20.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

03:32 Explaining fear through neuroscience and storytelling.

10:02 Unexpected stress can feel overwhelming and unpredictable.

15:05 Find personalised techniques to manage escalating anxiety.

25:56 Building new pathways starts with simple actions.

27:14 Techniques to help you manage stress.

36:41 Let brainwaves change by practicing awareness.

42:44 Building blocks for relaxation and therapeutic progress.

45:49 Relaxation enhances energy and mental clarity.

48:19 Use intermediate steps to achieve meditation calmness.

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

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 Intro

05:27 Rachel’s Yoga Journey

13:07 Comprehensive Patient Follow-Up Visits

16:51 Post-Treatment Confusion and Anxiety

20:15 Embracing a Healthcare Paradigm Shift

23:13 Menopausal Symptoms in Cancer Survivors

24:30 "Advocating Awareness in Cancer Care"

29:09 Empowering Mid-Level Providers in Oncology

31:42 Yoga Program Reduces Treatment Side Effects

35:35 Community Healing Through Connection

38:17 Normalising Post-Cancer Intimacy Challenges

Find 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_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

What do we know about the use of testosterone therapy for a person with a history of cancer? What data is available to us and how do we use this to make decisions in a patient-doctor relationship?

I discuss this with Mr. Vikram Talaulikar, associate specialist at the reproductive medicine unit and associate Professor in Women's Health at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

He has published widely in the area of reproductive medicine and explains to us what we know and what we don’t know and how he handles this in his day-to-day practice. 

Mr Talaulikar: https://www.menopausecliniclondon.co.uk/about-us

Or Instagram: @menopausecliniclondon

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Walker, a coach and podcast host, but also my very dear friend who has helped me personally so much over the years. 

We talk about the power of friendship and support when navigating cancer and mental health challenges. We explore the emotional ups and downs of survivorship, the impact of anxiety and the role of friends.

Takeaways from our conversation:

Friendship can be a lifeline during tough times.

How coaching can help

Redefining success after cancer to embracing vulnerability

What it really means to be a supportive friend.

Cancer affects mental health just as much as physical health.

Sharing our stories helps us feel less alone.

What’s wrong with ‘assumptions’

This conversation is filled with wisdom, honesty, and hope. I can’t wait for you to listen!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

05:26 Embracing Vulnerability and Openness

08:35 "Prioritise Big Rocks First"

14:42 Coaching Conversations: Navigating Health Decisions

16:46 Supportive Friendships: Guidance Without Directing

20:12 "Podcast Insights on Assumptions"

31:14 "Reflections on Cancer and Recovery"

33:40 Be the Friend You Seek

Listen to Rebecca’s podcast here https://headflex.co.uk/#83b77e94-775f-4144-ab1b-c69a481a6128 

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

The fifth episode in the HRT after breast cancer series features Tamzin, who many years after her breast cancer treatment for a hormone receptor-positive cancer decided to take HRT. 

Tamzin Rasmussen, a psychologist and psychotherapist from Australia has been proactive in participating in her medical treatments. Tamzin explores her decision to pursue hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after breast cancer treatment and the challenges she faced in discussing it with healthcare professionals. She discusses the importance of collaborative consultations and the need for healthcare practitioners to make room for nuance and uncertainty in treatment decisions. 

This mini-series explores hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after breast cancer, a controversial and emotive subject. The conversation focuses on the further understanding of risks and benefits of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) or also MHT (menopause hormone therapy), the emotional impact on patients, and the different views among medical professionals. 

The goal is to provide understanding for patients seeking HRT after breast cancer and insight for doctors on how to move forward without robust evidence. Dani Binnington, host of the Menopause And Cancer podcast, and founder of the not-for-profit organisation Menopause And Cancer has spoken to hundreds of women who feel like they are in a void and have nowhere to turn to in discussing this difficult topic. Welcome to our HRT after breast cancer series.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why the decision to start hormone replacement therapy after a breast cancer diagnosis is a complex and personal one
• Why it is important for patients to have an open and informed discussions with their medical team to make treatment decisions that align with their goals and values
• Why healthcare practitioners should make room for nuance and uncertainty in treatment discussions and consider the individual needs and preferences of each patient
• Tamzin explains the benefits she started to experience when starting HRT despite her cancer diagnosis

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

04:13 Chemotherapy triggered abrupt menopause, causing side effects.

07:33 Chemotherapy was awful, but brought relief.

14:31 Took break, switched medications, adjusted for effectiveness.

22:24 Cancer treatment induced menopause.

31:13 Women afraid of discussing HRT openly.

34:49 Oncologist approves oestrogen treatment for bone density.

37:23 Improved sleep, increased energy, and better stamina.

40:14 Conversation about bone health and medication concerns.

43:57 Consider decision slowly, discuss with informed practitioners.

48:38 Realising joy and richness in life's changes.

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

The walking challenge I mention is here for you: https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Ep 103 - Joint Ache SOS

Joint ache after cancer treatment can happen for various reasons. Low oestrogen levels or side effects of medication can be the cause. Joint pain can significantly affect daily activities and diminish overall quality of life, making it challenging for you to do the things you once enjoyed doing. You might feel very frustrated that you have completed cancer treatment and now to be left with what sometimes can be a debilitating pain. We know a proportion of women even stop their endocrine treatment as the joint pain is too much to bear.

Dr Melanie Hacking and Dr Susanne Hooper, both accredited Menopause Specialists registered with the British Menopause Society (BMS) from The Oxford Hormone Clinic are speaking to us to day to help us understand how we can navigate this very common symptom. 

We cover:

Why do women get joint ache?

How does chemotherapy, tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors make the situation worse?

What can help? Medication? Diet? Movement? Supplements? Heat therapy? Cold therapy? Does relaxation help? 

Does joint pain mean arthritis?

Notes from the doctors: https://www.arthritis.org/ 

You can find Dr. Hacking and Dr. Hooper here https://www.oxfordhormoneclinic.com/menopause-explained#cancer

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

03:28 Discussion on joint pain in menopause and cancer.

09:49 Women should communicate symptoms for improved treatment.

13:21 Movement is key for well-being and mood.

17:58 Low oestrogen leads to osteoporosis risk.

23:52 Use cold first, then heat for inflammation.

25:06 Encourage varied diet, consider supplements for nutrients.

33:12 Nutrition and supplements are vital during illness.

37:09 Treating joint pain in cancer survivors, the options.

40:17 Survivors carry heavy self-care burden, seek recognition.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Welcome to our myth busting session! 

There are many controversial topics in the cancer space. There is much confusion and as patients, we often have many questions. Many of you tell me that you’ve tried to ask your oncologist about various topics but were unsatisfied with the answers you got.

Does a vegan diet help with hot flushes? 

How shall I eat to improve my chances of survival? 

Is movement medicine? And does it need to be “more is better?”

Does hair dye and skin care increase the risk of cancer?

Do deodorants increase the risk of cancer?

What about underwire bras? 

How much alcohol is safe to drink? 

Is a collagen supplement safe? 

What about a turkey tail mushroom supplement? 

The fab Dr Eleanora Teplinsky, a board-certified medical oncologist specialising in breast and gynaecological oncology is on the podcast today to talk about all these questions and I am so grateful that she has taken the time for this myth busting session. 

She is is the Head of Breast Medical Oncology at Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care in Paramus, NJ and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.

You can find Dr. Teplinski here:

https://www.instagram.com/drteplinsky/?hl=en

https://interludecancerstories.com/about-dr-teplinsky/

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

What role does genomic testing play in promoting better health? While many are familiar with genetic tests like the BRCA mutation test, there's a growing trend towards testing for overall health improvement and personalisation of care. However, the question arises: is this approach advisable?

Online services now offer tests where individuals swab the inside of their cheeks, but what happens next with the results? The surge in glucose testing is notable, but discussions increasingly focus on personalised genetic tests such as genomic testing. These tests provide insights into how our biology functions and how we can leverage this information to positively impact and enhance our health. From how we metabolise oestrogen to why some of us are better sleepers than others - is it all in our genes?

In today’s episode, I speak to cancer survivor, nutritional scientist and integrative oncology practitioner Toral Shah. We talk personal experiences and Toral will share with you how genomic testing can help you better understand your biology.

You can find out more about Toral  here: https://www.theurbankitchen.co.uk/ 

Here is the link to LifecodeGX https://www.lifecodegx.com/ and they share more information about the genomic testing. You cannot book directly but through a practitioner.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

05:58 Genetic code influences our health, individual variations.

07:52 Genetic testing, cancer risk, and epigenetic discussed.

11:08 Genetic mutation has an impact on family and potentially daughters.

13:50 Testing glucose responses to different foods is important.

22:31 Genetic testing reveals family's shared cancer risk.

28:52 Genomic testing requires practitioner input, diversity needed.

31:17 We need genetic counselling in healthcare settings.

34:16 Cancer diagnosis can be a transformative moment.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Histamine Intolerance is one of the much lesser-known symptoms of menopause and I am delighted to welcome Dr Anisha Patel onto this week's episode. Anita has been diagnosed with bowel cancer herself and shares not only her personal story but also many nuggets from her professional experience as a GP with a special interest in women’s health.

A key takeaway for me from speaking to Anisha was that all things take time. Time to unfold and understand.

So, if you are feeling a little frustrated that you might not have found solutions or help in managing your menopausal symptoms as quickly as you’d hoped, then I hope today’s episode will show that even if you’re a doctor and even if you’re a doctor who is married to another doctor, it takes some time to put two and two together!

You can find Dr Anisha Patel on Instagram: @doctorsgetcancertoo

Here's Dr Anisha Patel’s book: everything you hoped you’d never need to know about bowel cancer

Histamine Intolerance resources shared by Dr Patel:

https://www.newsonhealth.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Histamine-Intolerance-v21-03.pdf

https://balance-menopause.com/uploads/2021/09/Histamine-Intolerance-1.pdf

https://drbeckycampbell.com/menopause-and-histamine-intolerance-connection/

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

We're thrilled to have Ursula join us to share her remarkable story. In our conversation, we delve into topics like peri-menopause, cancer, and the use of testosterone-only therapy for individuals with oestrogen-positive cancer.

Each of us embarks on a unique journey, especially in post-treatment and menopausal survivorship care, where experiences vary despite similar diagnoses and treatments. Our follow-up care, access to healthcare professionals, worries, and desires differ, shaping individual pathways.

The question arises: do you trust your instincts? Do you pursue what feels right for you?

Please note this episode does not give medical advice, but highlights one story and that is tat of Ursula’s.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

07:36 Ursula summarises her breast cancer treatments.

15:53 Facing second cancer diagnosis, opted for mastectomy.

19:45 Physical recovery took time, prioritised quality of life.

24:49 Seeking help for menopause symptoms, including pain.

27:33 Testosterone gel prescription 

28:25 Low oestrogen levels, important for bone health.

34:21 Gratitude for sharing unique cancer experiences.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Finding our silver linings can be tough when we are navigating menopause after cancer, and it involves acknowledging the existence of challenges or hardships while actively seeking and appreciating the positive aspects that may arise from those experiences. 

Today, on the show I am inviting my husband Tim to talk to us and we will remember our silver linings in all those years of navigating cancer survivorship. We had so many positive experiences happen to us because of cancer, even though both of our careers changed completely - and of course, we talk you through what happened on Dragons’ Den!

You can find Tim’s invention here: https://www.mantahair.com/ and the discount code is: MC20

Download your FREE Getting Started Guide here: https://menopauseandcancer.org/getting-started-guide/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

04:36 Overcoming anxiety and overwhelm through exercise and focus.

07:38 Focused on well-being during cancer treatment

16:23 Where the Manta hairbrush came from.

17:50 Early dedication and investment in a business venture surprises the family.

22:04 Lack of oestrogen affects hair.

25:33 Going on Dragons' Den.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

In today’s episode, I want to discuss the use of antidepressants for the management of menopause symptoms once you’ve had a cancer diagnosis. 

I am joined by the most incredible breast doctor, Dr Alison Macbeth, who runs a busy open-access breast clinic in Glasgow.

Before I invite Alison in I want to run through some examples with you that always come up in conversations with women when I run my workshops, at our Empowered Menopause programs and in our Facebook group. What applies to the management of menopause for a woman in perimenopause and natural menopause does not apply to us. So we almost have two ‘re-think’ and ‘un-learn‘ some general beliefs and we must address how we feel emotionally and what our concerns are around the use of antidepressants. 

After that, with the incredible help of Dr. Macbeth we are all ready to roll … dare I say.

Making more informed decisions specifically for someone in Menopause who has had a cancer diagnosis.

You can find Alison here https://thebms.org.uk/clinic/stobhill-hospital-breast-unit/

And here https://menopausecare.co.uk/dipl-team-member/associate-dr-alison-macbeth/

Here are the highlights:

(00:37) Introduction

(11:26) Alison describes her background

(13:47) First-line treatments

(16:00) Antidepressants that Alison prescribes for menopause symptoms 

(18:37) Using antidepressants for menopausal symptoms

(20:10) Do a three-month trial and start slow

(21:48) Women may be hesitant to take more medication after cancer treatment 

(23:43) Can antidepressants really improve someone’s quality of life?

(27:18) How long should people try and stay on this medication?

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

In today’s episode, I speak to Emma Campbell who has been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2014. I am trying to find out how much the menopause was part of her conversations when she was diagnosed with cancer the first time around and how much help and support she had since going on her monthly Zodalex injections.

Emma also talks about navigating cancer whilst being a single parent to 4 children and how writing helps her release some of her truth.

Emma is a speaker, author and columnist and she goes under the Instagram handle @limtless_em

And limitless she is!

She is a beautiful soul who shows us what it can be like to be a long-term cancer survivor. Thank you, Emma.

Her book is: All That Followed: A story of cancer, kids and the fear of leaving too soon

You can find Emma here: @limitless_em and https://limitlessem.com/ 

Here are the highlights:

(00:37) Introduction

(04:37) Emma’s cancer diagnosis and menopause journey

(07:59) There was never a conversation about menopause

(13:14) How do we prioritise issues in out lives?

(20:13) How Emma managed being a single parent to 4 children and going through cancer treatment

(23:13) The biggest challenge has been the emotional impact

(29:14) Emma’s secondary diagnosis

(32:57) Emma’s book: All that Followed: A Story of Cancer, Kids and the Fear of Leaving too Soon

(44:09) What brings Emma joy

(47:17) Emma’s writing workshop

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

Breast speciality oncologist Dr Claire Macaulay from Glasgow helps us understand how we can navigate difficult treatment decisions.

Many women say that being on a long-term anti-hormone treatment such as tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors is much harder than chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery altogether.

On this podcast we are also joined by a group of our community to give them an opportunity to ask their questions whilst being on the live show!

We talk about patients not feeling they get adequate upfront discussions to make informed decisions. We talk about not being heard. Who holds the risk? What can you do to manage side effects? 

Dr Claire Macaulay recognises the challenges these treatments come with and talks us through our options. 

Dr Macaulay is also a certified sex coach supporting people in menopause to have improved sex lives. You can find her here https://www.pleasurepossibility.com

And join her private Facebook group here 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

09:36 Understanding symptoms can help manage breast cancer.

13:07 Looking at Predict and how to use it.

21:53 Dealing with cancer treatment's psychological impact.

31:11 Managing menopausal symptoms with medications, side effects.

36:13 Importance of NHS and community care support.

42:54 Medical professionals support patient autonomy and choices.

51:17 Individual doctors must decide risk and comfort.

58:50 Concerns about future treatments and emotional support.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Episode 142 - Exercise Solutions: What Really Works for Menopause Symptoms

In today’s episode, we will explore which type of exercise and which dose of exercise will help ease cancer treatment-induced symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, depression, insomnia and bone health. 

In this episode, we are going to explore: what exercise can do for you.

We are joined by Professor Anna Campbell and a whole group of the women in our community. Professor Campbell has published over 60 research papers and three academic book chapters in the field of exercise and cancer survivorship. In addition, she has also established the charity CanRehabTrust which links cancer patients to cancer exercise specialists. If you have any questions about how to exercise after cancer, Professor Campbell is the person to ask. 

• Which type of exercise is best after cancer?
• How much should I exercise?
• Can exercise reduce my risk of recurrence?
• What are the guidelines?

Here are the guidelines on exercise after cancer: https://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/exercise-guidelines-cancer-infographic.pdf

This episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

04:56 Exploring exercise's impact on cancer treatment recovery.

10:36 Pre-hab reduces complications and saves healthcare costs.

19:20 Exercise aids recovery, improving quality of life.

22:17 Diet/exercise prevents weight gain, improves health.

24:20 Menopausal symptoms can worsen post-cancer.

32:52 Regular exercise and stretching.

35:03 Strength and endurance are both essential.

38:52 Exercise 150 minutes weekly.

48:33 Exercise post-diagnosis reduces cancer recurrence risk.

51:20 Embrace new activities post-cancer for joy.

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

In today's episode, I have two women who have gone and done fantastic things whilst moving their bodies. Yep, we talk about the benefits of exercise but what we focus on are all the trimmings that come with it, the things that are hard to be measured and why it’s ok to be last and how that can still make you feel like you’re winning and on top of the world.

If you’re moving lots already or have lost your mojo completely, I hope this episode will sprinkle you with a good portion of positivity!

Lucy Patullo has worked as a lawyer for an investment bank but decided to qualify as a Pilates teacher following her cancer diagnosis in 2021. She now helps others experience the benefits of Pilates to help them get through treatment & thrive beyond cancer. She set up Rebalance Me UK. 

You can find Lucy here: https://www.instagram.com/rebalancemeuk/?hl=en

Gemma Lumley is a walk leader for outdoor activities company, Yorkie Talkies Outdoors, a copy writer, chocolate taster and a cleaner ;-)

Gemma says, “I’d love to help anyone recently diagnosed, in treatment or in the ‘moving forward’ phase to access the beauty of the great outdoors.”

You can find the Yorkie Talkies Outdoors company here www.yorkietalkies.co.uk

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Have you ever thought that going onto HRT would fix all of your problems? 

Well, you’re not alone, today I am joined by the fabulous Helen Addis, also known as The Titty Gritty. Helen talks us through her most stubborn menopause symptoms, how she wished HRT was an option for her and how she wished a bit of brain lube would exist! Don’t ask, when you know you know ;-)

Helen has enjoyed almost 20 years in the television industry and she has created the National breast cancer awareness campaign called ‘Change And Check’, which has saved many people’s lives already.

This is an uplifting and honest conversation with a wonderful women. We also discuss how continuously having to make decisions about our care can be really hard work and so Dani is reading one of her favourite poems by Safire Rose for you at the end of the podcast. It’s called “She let go”.

You can find Helen here: https://www.instagram.com/thetittygritty/?hl=en

This is the link to the brain health tool Helen mentions: https://briccentre.co.uk/

Episode Highlights:

[04:50] Menopause affects Helen’s brain function negatively.

[10:14] Breast cancer diagnosis halted Helen’s life plans.

[18:02] Titty Gritty.

[19:08] Change and Check.  

[23:12] Performing with Alfie Boe.

[25:06] Menopause awareness leads to empowerment and inspiration.

[27:56] Disappointed with the menopause specialist appointment: Hoped for a life-changing answer, but none found.

[39:52] Poem by Safire Rose “She Let Go”.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

The first episode of the HRT after breast cancer series features oncologist Dr. Leila Agrawal, who discusses the evidence, studies, and trials regarding HRT for breast cancer patients.

Dr. Laila Agrawal is a medical oncologist and haematologist specialising in treating breast cancer patients. She is involved in research and clinical trials and she strives to get to know every patient and learn what is important in their lives, from their families to their goals, and how that plays into important decisions about their health.

This mini-series explores hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after breast cancer, a controversial and emotive subject. The conversation focuses on the further understanding of risks and benefits of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) or also MHT (menopause hormone therapy), the emotional impact on patients, and the different views among medical professionals. 

The goal is to provide understanding for patients seeking HRT after breast cancer and insight for doctors on how to move forward without robust evidence. Dani Binnington, host of the Menopause And Cancer podcast, and founder of the not-for-profit organisation Menopause And Cancer has spoken to hundreds of women who feel like they are in a void and have nowhere to turn to in discussing this difficult topic. Welcome to our HRT after breast cancer series.

In this episode we discuss:

• The role of hormone-blocking medications such as tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer survivors.
• Dr. Agrawal discusses many studies on HRT after breast cancer, including the The Habits study which showed an increased risk of recurrence in the HRT group, leading to the trial being stopped early.
• She goes on to explain The Stockholm study which did not show an increased risk of recurrence.
• Dr. Agrawal explains other studies, including observational studies that looked at the use of hormone replacement therapy after breast cancer and explains the outcome of meta-analysis for different types of breast cancers. 
• We discuss what these study results mean for different types of cancers, such as triple-negative breast cancer. 
• Dr. Agrawal discusses the difference between absolute risk and relative risk is and why this is important when interpreting data.
• Additional research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of HRT in breast cancer survivors.

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro.

04:19 Understanding patient perspectives and ethical medical decisions.

08:10 Different types of breast cancer treatment options.

09:52 Aromatase inhibitors used to treat breast cancer.

17:01 Breast cancer trial halted due to risk.

25:05 Stockholm Study.

37:14 Interpreting risk reduction impact of treatments accurately.

48:04 Data on tamoxifen and HRT remains inconclusive.

53:25 Understanding and quantifying medical risks for patients.

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

Tune in as we talk about loss, identity and finding meaning.

In the course of my podcast and broader engagements, I’ve met numerous insightful and touching individuals. However, Stella's insights in this episode resonated deeply, stirring an unexpected shift within me. Her words seemed to reach a part of me that I hadn't anticipated, prompting a profound internal change.

Stella Duffy, a psychotherapist and two-time breast cancer survivor, is not only an accomplished writer with seventeen novels and multiple plays to her credit but also a dedicated advocate for inclusion throughout the UK. Having lived well over twenty years in post-menopause she has a special interest in life after the menopause transition – a conversation sadly lacking in the prevalent current discourse.

This episode is special - so is Stella. 

Psychotherapy: stelladuffytherapy.co.uk

Episode highlights:

• [03:26] Stella reflects on cancer therapy and struggles.
• [10:51] Self-criticism and compassion, navigating life's losses.
• [14:01] The absurdity of gender binary and cancer positivity.
• [18:08] Why is nudity seen as empowering for women?
• [25:01] Losing mortality virginity is irreversible and impactful.
• [33:58] Encouraging clients to reconnect with the body.
• [39:51] Constant fight, anxiety, body distrust, sexual expectation.
• [46:29] Self-soothing by crossing your arms and hugging yourself.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Has anyone been told by their consultant not to drink alcohol once diagnosed with breast cancer? I have and it's hard to swallow!

This was a question we had in the Facebook community and a flurry of messages followed. So I wanted to talk about my personal relationship with alcohol and how that has changed over the years.

So come and join me on my thought processes and why becoming teetotal was easier for me than moderating my alcohol intake. 

I am embarking on my 9th year alcohol-free and am loving it still!

Podcast mention: Myth Busting with an Oncologist 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

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 Supplements
• Which Herbal Medicine works for Menopause Symptoms?
• Deep Dive into: Ashwagandha and Black Cohosh 
• Considerations for oestrogen positive cancer patients
• Phytoestrogens – Are They Safe?
• How to Find Quality Herbal Products
• Seeing a Medical Herbalist – What to Expect
• Why a Holistic Approach is Key

Tune in now for a deep dive into the power of herbal medicine!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

06:13 Understanding Menopause and Herbal Medicine

07:52 Herbal Medicine Vs. Supplements

16:14 Ashwagandha: Benefits and Uses

18:43 "Herbal Medicine for Menopause Post-Cancer"

22:00 "Finding a Qualified Herbalist"

33:32 Phytoestrogens: Potential and Caution

40:19 Research Limitations Highlighted

Connect with Dani & Menopause and Cancer: menopauseandcancer.org

Connect with Melinda: melindamcdougall.com

Links mentioned in the episode:

https://www.careopinion.org.uk/services/g507h

https://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_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Leanne Pero is a remarkable woman who received an MBE from Prince William for her exceptional charity work with Black Women Rising. I had no idea of the challenges black women face when navigating cancer and I also had no idea that Leanne receives so much trolling for her exceptional work. It shows my ignorance and I am here to learn. 

Leanne shares with us how we can each start to champion ourselves. We also talk about her journey through menopause and how she nearly started HRT after her breast cancer diagnosis. However, her story took an unexpected twist and turn and it shows us quite how underserved we are as women as we navigate menopause and life after cancer. 

Leanne Pero, you are amazing! 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

07:54 Shocked by breast cancer, feeling isolated.

11:58 Black women face disparities in cancer outcomes.

15:00 Encouraging women to embrace authentic connections.

18:27 PR firm hired to handle abuse, and protect voices.

25:38 Met Prince William and had an amazing chat.

29:35 Therapy is crucial for personal and generational healing.

31:03 Women prioritise others, and struggle to prioritise themselves.

39:05 Knew HRT had risks, not well-informed.

41:39 Finally saw family doctor, diagnosed with an under-active thyroid.

44:50 Talking about health experiences outside medical norms.

49:11 Excited about our walking challenge, join us now!

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

The walking challenge I mentioned is here for you: https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Connect with Leanne:

https://www.leannepero.com/

https://www.instagram.com/leanneperoofficial/

I am delighted to welcome back for a second time the fabulous Dr Eleonora Teplinsky, a board-certified medical oncologist from the US.

There are many controversial topics in the cancer space and there is much confusion and as patients, we often have many questions. Many of you tell me that you’ve tried to ask your oncologist about various topics but were unsatisfied with the answers you got.

Is it true that more and more young people are getting diagnosed with cancer and why is that?

Who is in your cancer team?

Can fasting help reduce our risks of cancer recurrence?

Sexual health and mental health are part of comprehensive cancer treatment - do you prescribe vaginal oestrogen to cancer survivors?

Are probiotics safe for us?

Is all sunscreen equal?

Is the new non-hormonal drug for hot flushes available in the US yet? And do you have experience with it?

The fab Dr Eleonora Teplinsky is the Head of Breast Medical Oncology at Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care in Paramus, NJ and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.

You can find Dr Teplinski’s instagram here. And her fab podcast is here for you.

And donate to her fundraising page today! 

Episode Highlights:

• [02:40] Drinking isn't a guarantee for cancer, but exercise, diet, and quitting smoking can reduce risk.
• [07:14] The UK and US have similar issues. Oncologists can't address all side effects.
• [09:59] Outdated stats, individual risk matters more.
• [16:30] Trust your doctor, question claims on social media.
• [19:37] Seek specialised help for health and nutrition.
• [24:12] Sexual and mental health side effects.
• [25:59] Low dose of vaginal oestrogen.
• [31:47] Non-hormonal option for hot flashes

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Have you ever wondered how hormones affect your skin? Has your skin’s appearance changed since cancer treatment and since menopause? Feel like a prune? Oh gosh, I dislike this phrase but I know what they mean!

We have an amazing expert on the show today, Dr. Mandy Leonhardt is a menopause specialist and author of two books. She has done all the research for you and read hundreds of papers and studies to understand how our skin works and how it interacts with our hormones.

On today’s show, I want to bust some myths with Mandy. Which products work? And which is a waste of our money? We also go through some practical tips and advice ranging from medical treatments, skincare ingredients, easy lifestyle changes, nutrition and supplements.

We talk about: 

Cleansers

Moisturiser

Retinol 

Collagen 

Sunscreen

Magnesium Glycinate

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro.

04:03 Hormonal changes impact skin, hair, and well-being.

12:07 Addressing internal conflict about physical appearance options.

16:20 Genes, lifestyle, and bone density's effect summarised.

19:29 Limit cleansing, use water in the morning.

21:53 Choose right moisturiser for skin, not cost.

24:20 Active ingredients in cosmetics and their impact.

31:38 Retinol in skin cream can have drawbacks.

36:39 Topical oestrogen.

38:30 Mineral sunscreens derived from mineral oxides.

46:07 Collagen supplements.

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

The walking challenge I mention is here for you: https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Dr. Leonhardt’s books are here for you:

What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the hormones on your inside affect you on the outside 

The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause: Practical Advice and Support for Living with Early Menopause and POI 

In today’s episode, I am joined by the woman who has become my biggest inspiration personally and professionally over the last year - without knowing it! Amanda Winwood is today’s guest and she shares her journey of shaking up and transforming the spa industry to be more inclusive for cancer patients. She discusses the importance of touch therapy, the science behind the formulations in her skin care brand Made For Life Organics, and the significance of being authentic and wanting to do the right thing. Amanda emphasises the need for integrity in product creation - some of the facts she reveals about organic skin care will shock you for sure! This conversation is a call for each of us to channel our inner hippie, our inner rebel and to embrace true authenticity.

Thanks to our sponsors https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ Made For Life Organics - one of the most authentic skin-care brands that I have come across. They are true organic skin care products, hand-blended in Cornwall, with a unique mix of botanical ingredients combining science with nature. Go to https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ they are giving our community 20% off with MENO20.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:28 Open-mindedness needed to welcome cancer patients in spas.

15:08 Validation, nature, and massage significantly impact well-being.

22:24 Organic skincare only requires 1.75% organic ingredients.

25:11 Improve skin microbiome through diet and nature.

32:15 Calendula’s healing power cherished and family-tied.

36:43 Nature's herbs and flowers deeply connect and help.

38:31 Made for Life Organics prioritise integrity and handmade natural products.

43:45 Embrace inner hippie, rebel, and authenticity.

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

If you want to change your drinking behaviour or not - this is a must-listen! You’ll learn a lot about yourself - for sure!

Have you thought that you should drink less alcohol? Are people around you talking about doing dry January? Are you worried about the risks of alcohol and cancer? Maybe you don’t drink much but feel guilty even if you have a glass or two. And of course, the social impact is huge! It’s not easy to turn up to parties just sipping away on a bit of sparkling water - initially anyway.

I’m so delighted to have invited sobriety coach and podcaster Danni Carr onto the show to talk us through what is going on and how we could make changes if we want to.

This is a non-judgemental conversation with a compassionate coach. 

Here is more info about Danni https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/pages/about

And her brilliant podcast “How I quit alcohol” is here: https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/pages/podcast

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

06:45 Using old habits for momentary comfort.

09:51 Struggled with alcohol, quit for 6 years.

17:41 Moment of clarity led to life change.

21:39 Avoid alcohol for long-term well-being and comfort.

24:00 Prioritising self-care for better habits and wellness.

27:26 Healthier alternatives for moderate alcohol consumption shift.

30:40 Grateful for sobriety, seeing the benefits.

38:12 Deep breathing reduces stress, improves decision-making.

45:57 Let go of negative mindset for change.

47:35 Pros and cons of drinking and quitting.

52:30 Make a mocktail with Dani.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

When Jo Woolnough asked her oncologist to discuss the use of HRT after her breast cancer diagnosis her oncologist said “No, she can’t have that conversation.” 

In this episode, I want to find out what Jo’s thought processes were in exploring HRT after her oestrogen driven breast cancer and I am curious to hear if Jo got her “Funny back”.

The use of HRT after a cancer diagnosis is a topic that brings with it many conflicting information and opinions. It is my aim to have a non-judgemental conversation that explores one person’s thoughts and decisions, today this is Jo’s story.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Feel like you’ve lost your confidence since cancer treatment induced menopause? In this empowering episode, I want to explore the journey of rebuilding confidence after cancer treatment and through menopause. Lack of confidence and loss of self-worth is something we are all too familiar with as we navigate life after cancer and of course the lack of hormones play a part too.

I dive into how these life-altering experiences can challenge your sense of self and provide practical tools to help you rise above self-doubt and embrace your strengths. 

From managing body image struggles to finding your voice again, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive.

Whether you’re navigating treatment-induced menopause, recovering from cancer, or supporting someone on this journey, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about overcoming challenges and rediscovering the amazing person you are.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:19 Brain fog impairs competence and concentration significantly.

09:44 Cancer can result in self-doubt and distrust in body.

13:50 Overcoming struggles: regain confidence through support.

17:15 Focus on strengths, set manageable goals.

20:05 Overthinking causes exhaustion and lack of confidence.

22:04 Confidence dwindled over years, impacting aspirations.

27:41 Celebrate small successes; utilise reminders and strategies.

29:29 Feeling unworthy, judged, anxious, insecure, sober.

40:02 Embrace emotional growth; CBT strategies can help.

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

In a recent poll in my private Facebook group, I asked our members to tick all the symptoms they associate with being in menopause after cancer. I plan to address these one by one over the next few months with all my amazing experts on the podcast.

Today, I am joined by Dr. Phillippa Kaye, who is a London based GP with over a decade of experience. Together we will explore what came out at the very top of the poll: HOT FLUSHES + BRAIN FOG

Philippa has a special interest and further training in women’s health, children’s health and sexual health. She is also the author of The M word - everything you need to know about the menopause, she is a journalist, broadcaster on national TV and a mother. 

The second edition of The M word is out now. Here is the link to the book:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Word-Everything-Need-About-Menopause/dp/1787832945

You can find Philippa here: https://www.drphilippakaye.com/

Or on Instagram: @drphilippakaye

Here is the private Facebook group link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

In today’s episode, we dive into your bowel health. How do chemotherapy, surgery, medication, and menopause affect our bowel health? What should we look out for? And what are some top tips to improve it?

We are joined by Dr Julie Cornish, a consultant colorectal surgeon at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. Dr Cornish has a specialist interest in pelvic floor and women’s health and is currently running a trial looking at the impact of cancer surgery on bowel function. This is a significant issue for many patients, often exacerbated after menopause.

Julie has also founded https://www.everywomanfest.com/ helping women understand what’s normal and where to seek help for various health issues.

Learn more about the POLARiS trial here: www.bowelresearchuk.org/research-hub/polaris/ 

IBS Dietician Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibs.dietitian/?hl=en  

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:35 Chemotherapy impacts the bowel lining, and gut microbiome. Dietary solutions.

12:45 Neglect of cancer survivors' post-treatment issues.

19:06 Post-bowel cancer: regular stool, fibre, avoid risks.

21:14 The impact of surgery on patients' lives.

23:46 Beware of unreliable health information on the internet.

28:16 Common doesn't mean it's normal. Seek help.

31:46 Boost fibre intake, and prioritise bowel health. Try flaxseeds.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

If you think an oncologist should have it all figured out then think again. Rachel Elliot has been an oncologist for decades and only once she was diagnosed with a hormone dependant breast cancer herself did she realise how under-supported women are in managing their symptoms and experiences. 

This is a wonderful account of a Doctor who became the patient. 

“It really struck home that I am not the only one struggling, not the only one feeling guilty and that I should be grateful to be alive. Not the only one feeling this little white tablet is worse than chemotherapy.”

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Let’s get this straight. It is important to know exactly if hormone replacement therapy is an option for you and if not, then why not. Furthermore, we need to make a clear distinction between systemic HRT and local oestrogen therapy. It is important that all cancer patients understand their options and talk to their doctors about their symptoms.

Below are the links about the safety of vaginal oestrogen that you can share with your healthcare provider:

Article "A systematic review of randomised clinical trials – The safety of vaginal hormones and selective eostrogen receptor modulators for the treatment of genitourinary menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors" is now published and is available at https://doi.org/10.1177/20533691231208473

By Prof. Talaulikar 

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2811413

The JAMA Oncology study 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:37 No adverse effects from oestrogen use. JAMA study finds no increase in breast cancer mortality with vaginal oestrogen therapy.

10:20 Cancer survivors should seek multiple expert opinions for personalised care.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Consultant oncologist Dr Nabil Elmahdawi shares with us his number 1 top tip in how he thinks we could all improve our menopause experience post-cancer. 

We are the change makers in our menopause movement - we have to work together, doctors, patients and healthcare providers. 

I promise you will be able to make this a more supported, better informed and positive experience for ourselves and others. 

Right at the end I am sharing a poem and I want to share it with you here as well:

You my friend, you are the change-maker

Amidst the trials, in the face of strife,

Stands a woman, the change-maker in life.

Her bravery soars, a beacon of might,

In the realm of health, she ignites the light.

She walks through the storms, undeterred, unafraid,

With passion and courage, her path she has laid.

Fighting for wellness, in every stride,

For women's health, she stands with pride.

Her voice resonates, breaking barriers tall,

Championing change, she answers the call.

For those unheard, she lends her grace,

Their stories and struggles she boldly will embrace.

She's the hero we need, her actions profound,

Revolutionising health, turning it around.

With each step she takes, a difference she makes,

Her bravery and strength, the world awakes.

Let's hail these women, their valour we acclaim,

In their quest for health, they etch their name.

For change-makers, brave and true,

Women's health thrives, because of you.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

06:20 NHS struggles to address cancer survivor needs.

09:26 Guidelines focus on addressing cancer survivor issues.

12:42 Clinicians rely on emerging publications for guidance.

19:48 Chronic, untreatable condition with far-reaching impacts.

22:46 Navigating cancer treatment conversations with doctors effectively.

26:53 Advocating for timely access to life-saving treatment.

31:48 Facial aesthetics can improve psychological well-being.

35:02 Navigating spiritual and self-care changes positively.

38:35 Formal guidelines for cancer survivors to enjoy life.

41:23 ‘You my friend, you are the change-maker’ poem read by Dani 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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:

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 effectively

Whether 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 Intro

03:20 Integrative Cancer Care Standardisation

07:34 "Dealing with Chemical Menopause"

14:24 Cancer: Preparing for the Storm

17:35 Support Crucial in Cancer Journey

22:52 Challenges in Herbal Medicine Efficacy 

26:04 Naturopathic Oncology and Chemotherapy Integration

29:15 Integrity-Focused Medical Practice

36:06 Cancer Recovery and Positivity

39:45 Simple Uplift: Joyful Resilience

Here are today’s links:

The Menopause And Cancer podcast on YOUTUBE - subscribe here https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseandCancer?sub_confirmation=1

Find 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_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

In this empowering episode, I I want to dive into the reality that, while feeling “lucky to be alive” is a powerful sentiment, it doesn’t always capture the whole story. 

Join me as I explore how these feelings of gratitude sometimes make it harder to ask for help, share personal struggles, or seek the support needed for true healing. 

So many of you amazing survivors I speak to, myself included, face unanticipated challenges - like the added complexity of menopause - and many are out there feeling alone and looking for holistic support.

We'll uncover ways to balance gratitude with advocacy for your health, find trustworthy resources when medical guidance is lacking, and build a community that truly understands.

Support is here for you:

Join our experts for our Online Menopause And Cancer Festival starting on November 11th 2024, and book your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/menopause-and-cancer-72544601233

You’re not alone, and together, we can build a healthier, more holistic path forward.

Thanks to our sponsors https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ Made For Life Organics - one of the most authentic skin-care brands that I have come across. They are true organic skin care products, hand-blended in Cornwall, with a unique mix of botanical ingredients combining science with nature. Go to https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/ they are giving our community 20% off with MENO20.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:14 Seek help post-cancer; you deserve support.

08:52 Silent struggles unaddressed.

13:21 Consulted Dr Google.

18:36 Balance information intake; consult doctors, avoid overload.

22:50 Reflecting, reevaluating, balancing missteps for holistic health.

25:43 Embrace gratitude while advocating for your health.

29:34 Online Menopause And Cancer Festival.

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

Welcome to this special Christmas Day episode of the Menopause and Cancer Podcast. For many of us—cancer survivors navigating treatment-induced menopause—this day might not feel like the picture-perfect celebration we see in movies or on social media. And that’s okay. In today’s episode, I want to turn celebrating on it’s head - and celebrate YOU. 

Let’s take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect on what it means to celebrate ourselves. Whether you’re feeling gratitude, exhaustion, or something in between, this is your gentle reminder that you are enough just as you are.

• What does “celebration” really mean on a day like today?
• Why it’s okay if today doesn’t feel joyful, and how we can find moments of peace.
• Reframing Christmas: turning the focus inward and celebrating your resilience, strength, and small wins.
• Wrapping yourself in warmth—literally and figuratively—and filling up your own cup.

Make sure you are signed up to our Newsletter HERE

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Celebrating quiet strength over hustle and tradition.

05:03 Menopause post-cancer impact underestimated; needs support.

07:36 What does celebration mean to you today?

11:24 Feeling detached yet grateful during a family celebration.

14:39 Celebrate yourself with affirmations and self-care.

19:48 Disconnecting from the body impedes true enjoyment.

21:53 Embrace being the proud, empowered, "difficult" woman.

25:49 Celebration for you, unity, connections, and healing.

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

In today’s episode, Dr. Zoe Schaedel, a British Menopause Society expert, will guide us through your non-hormonal prescribable options for helping with your menopause symptoms. “What can your doctor prescribe if you can’t have HRT?”, I what we asked.

We will also discuss:

• What can you expect from a menopause specialist?
• What alternatives are there to HRT?
• What medication can help for hot flushes, restless legs, low mood and other symptoms?
• Why the menopause symptom checker is crucial!
• Supplements & Magnesium - what’s the evidence?
• Q&A - Dr. Schaedel answers your questions

This episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.

Dr Zoe Schaedel is an NHS GP with expertise in menopause, sleep problems and cancer patients. She has founded Myla Health and is an accredited British Menopause Specialist.

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro.

08:34 HRT considered for certain cancer history cases.

11:32 SSRIs/SNRIs explained.

16:38 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help you cope with symptoms.

19:07 Vaginal oestrogen often used post-cancer treatment.

25:10 Choosing treatments involves weighing personal concerns.

30:23 Collaboration essential for deciding cancer treatment options.

31:16 Consider lifestyle changes.

36:43 Evaluate need for HRT; alternative methods exist.

38:36 Prioritise shared decision-making.

44:19 Supplements unregulated; difficult for doctors to recommend.

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

In this insightful episode, Sam Evans and I discuss the challenges women face in maintaining intimacy and sexual pleasure during menopause and cancer. Sam provides practical advice on self-exploration, communication, and using sex toys to enhance sexual experiences. And we have a great starting point (discount code for you!).

It is not just about penis-in-vagina sex! Oh no. 

The conversation covers physical and emotional factors impacting libido and offers strategies for reconnecting with one's sexuality.

Key points include:

• The importance of pleasure, sex toys, and lubrication in the context of cancer and menopause.
• The need for healthcare professionals to address sexual health and provide accurate information.
• The role of different types of lubricants and the importance of choosing products with safe ingredients.
• Encouragement to explore sexuality and seek professional help if needed.

We hope to normalise discussions about sexual health and promote a holistic approach to pleasure and intimacy.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:16 Loneliness and sex life impact menopause community.

09:12 Navigating menopause's impact on intimacy and relationships.

11:40 Sam recommends starting small with sex toys.

16:18 Explore new ways to improve sex life.

19:50 Overcoming challenges in maintaining intimacy and connection.

21:07 Learning about non-vaginal sex.

26:26 Dilators used for sexual sensation and relaxation.

29:51 Check ingredients for vaginal and skin health.

31:08 Lubricants.

46:42 Exploring sex toys and libido in relationships.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

We have a fantastic 10% discount code for you: MAC2024 (£5 minimum spend on full-priced products excluding P&P) ENDS 31/08/24

More info is here:

https://www.jodivine.com/blogs/sexual-health/jo-divine-health-brochure

Does this resonate? 

“I am at that awkward stage where my old self is gone but my new self hasn’t fully been born”.

This episode is crucial. We're not here to solve a single symptom, but to tackle a deeper issue many of us face.

I get it — many of us long for our pre-cancer lives. But I believe we can aim for something even better.

It's not just about easing physical symptoms or trying to reclaim who you were before cancer. The truth is, you're in transition. Cancer has changed you and your life, and you’re likely making other changes as well.

In this episode, I’ll guide you through the process of embracing post-cancer survivorship with open eyes. We’ll explore the stages of transition — letting go, mourning who you once were and how you thought life would unfold, and moving toward discovery and dreaming up a new version of yourself.

Stay tuned until the end, when I’ll lead you through a short but powerful meditation!

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 Intro.

04:18 Menopause and cancer journey creates unexpected community.

12:20 Reflect on changes and transitions after cancer.

15:40 Reflect on transition, acknowledge, mourn, and heal.

19:58 Transition to menopause and cancer, finding purpose.

22:02 Yoga strengthened me during cancer recovery.

25:55 Short meditation.

28:00 Embracing menopause after cancer treatment: feeling ready?

32:24 Reflect, appreciate progress, and look forward.

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

Systemic therapies to treat breast cancer can lead to a whole array of vaginal and urinary problems.

This is a huge survivorship issue that affects nearly 70% of postmenopausal, breast cancer survivors and even more in younger women.

These symptoms are often underdiagnosed and under-treated due to underreporting by the patients and limited awareness by professionals.

Are you suffering?  

Confused about what is safe for you? 

I am delighted to welcome Dr Glynne onto the podcast today. We will be discussing: 

• What does the term genito-urinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) mean? 
• It’s not all about dry vaginas! What other symptoms do we talk about?
• Why do these symptoms happen?
• What are our treatment options? 
• Are vaginal oestrogens safe for all breast cancer survivors?
• What types of vaginal oestrogens are best?
• I share tips and helpful messages from our community!

The walking fundraising challenge I mentioned at the end of the podcast is here https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raisely.com/ Join us!

You can find Dr. Glynne here https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/finder/specialists/sarah-glynne

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

A suppressed immune system is a common worry for many cancer survivors, especially when you throw menopause into the mix. Today’s guest will share some fantastic tips and tricks with you on boosting your immunity. But before we do so we will also talk about how you can support your detoxification process - another common worry, especially for those who had chemotherapy, general anaesthetics and other drugs. 

I am delighted to welcome Farzanah Nasser, a nutritional therapist onto the podcast. Farzanah helps women who struggle with auto-immune, gut and hormonal imbalances and she will explain to us:

• How you can support your detoxification process
• How can habit stacking help you stay on track?
• How can you boost your immunity?
• What are plant points?
• Take part in her super easy “3 new ingredients a week” challenge 
• How you can super hack pretty much all of your staple meals 
• Is apple cider vinegar as good as people make it sound?

I’ve personally taken away so many fantastic tips which I am going to implement straight away! 

This is a pen-and-paper type episode! I hope you enjoy it! And now go and super hack your immunity!

You can find Farzanah here https://www.farzanahnasser.com/ and here on her helpful Instagram account.

Episode Highlights:

• [03:52] Good detox starts with regular bowel movements. Drinking enough water, consuming fibre-rich foods like kiwi fruit, staying hydrated, and staying active all support healthy digestion and toxin elimination.
• [06:39] Support the liver with clean, whole foods. Avoid processed foods. Include asparagus, artichoke, berries, and watercress.
• [10:30] Establishing achievable routines leads to better well-being.
• [15:13] Boost the immune system by protecting gut health effectively.
• [19:15] Habit stacking leads to better food choices.
• [22:49] Pasteurised eliminates bacteria; buy fermented, refrigerated foods.
• [25:26] Keep miso in the fridge as it helps the immune system.
• [27:15] Outdoor activities and good sleep boost the immune system.
• [32:09] Consider incorporating a diverse "veg box" monthly for improved gut health and immune system support.
• [36:03] Differentiating turmeric in a diet vs. supplement.
• [39:50] Including dried Shiitake mushrooms in your diet in various ways.
• [42:44] Mindful eating promotes relaxation and digestion.
• [47:27] Strategies for healthy habits and rebuilding health.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources...

Sexual health after a cancer diagnosis is complex and it’s not enough to purely address our physical symptoms. The brilliant medical oncologist Dr. Laila Agrawal from the US, joins us for this episode where we embark on understanding the complexity of emotional, physical and social changes that affect our sex lives.

And of course, we talk about what your options are and why we need to create the book club we never knew we needed! 

We talk: 

Zero libido

Body confidence

How to treat symptoms

Vaginal oestrogen after breast cancer - new guidance

Sexy stories 

And so much more.

You can find Dr. Agrawal here: https://providers.nortonhealthcare.com/provider/Laila+S+Agrawal/466429

This is her informative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlailaagrawal/

For perhaps your first ever women’s erotic story go here: https://meetrosy.com/erotica

A large group of high-quality studies show that vaginal oestrogen is safe for breast cancer survivors even those on Aromatase Inhibitors.

Here is the Guidance:

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2811413

https://www.acog.org/news/news-releases/2016/02/acog-supports-the-use-of-estrogen-for-breast-cancer-survivors

https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2017.75.8995

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/20533691231208473

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

07:06 Low rate of women reporting sexual health issues.

11:54 Breast cancer treatments may worsen vaginal symptoms.

15:18 Recommended hyaluronic acid vaginal products.

23:09 Guidelines support vaginal hormones for breast cancer.

31:18 Vaginal dilator helps with pelvic muscle discomfort.

36:17 Knowing your sexual goals is important for health.

41:05 Chemotherapy and medications can affect libido desire.

44:42 Planning builds anticipation, connection, and pleasure.

48:23 Rediscovering pleasure, connecting with partner, sex therapy.

51:28 Body image and cancer's impact on self-esteem.

01:00:01 Explore sexy stories to spice up libido.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can...

Herbal medicine is the most common form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) used by patients with cancer, with increasing use following a cancer diagnosis. Additionally, a staggering 73.6% of women in the menopausal period are thought to be using Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). 

Since emerging new research and some exciting new studies are happening in this field, I wanted to revisit this important conversation about the use of herbal medicine.  

Our guest is Melinda McDougall, the vice president of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists.  

The main worry amongst women with a history of cancer who are dealing with the menopause is around contraindications that come with taking herbal medication. And rightly so, these powerful plants are not to be underestimated.

In today’s episode, we will discover:

• What is the real role of a medical herbalist?
• Is black cohosh safe for women with breast cancer?
• The real facts about plant oestrogens and why you might have to re-think what you know.
• Will red clover become a player in helping reduce cancer recurrence? 
• Is a cup of herbal tea enough to ease symptoms?
• How could herbal medication help you stay on your long-term cancer treatment?
• Can herbal medication help with body and joint aches, low mood, hot flushes, poor sleep, and anxiety? 

You can find Melinda McDougall here 

https://www.melindamcdougall.com/

The below website can help you look for contra-indications:

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs?fbclid=IwAR3sHS50LdxoGL8fFVkzhHUACOjyuYwQELLPPEg3sQCGD8k5MQUZTEnA5ww

Episode Mention: Does Herbal Medication Work? With Melinda McDougall & Anita Ralph

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

Welcome to today’s episode where I want to sum up what numerous doctors have shared with me over the years. In this episode we are going to explore:

• why you are most likely experiencing challenges in getting the right help with your menopausal symptoms. 
• We will go through all the symptoms associated with the menopause and why it might be confusing to know what’s what. Is it brain fog or is it still chemo brain? 
• And I will share my flow chart of all your treatment options with you. This will give you an overview - of what’s in your menopause after cancer toolkit.

In the upcoming episodes, I’ll be joined by experts who will help us dive deeper into these important topics. So stay tuned and embrace this journey of exploration. At the end, I’ll share how you can connect with a menopause specialist if you feel you need that extra support.

This episode was recorded in the presence of our incredible community, and I’ll be sharing some of their valuable comments and reflections with you as well.

Here’s to learning, growth, and feeling more supported together!

Find your symptom checker here https://menopauseandcancer.org/menopause-and-cancer-symptom-checklist/

This episode is sponsored by Astellas Pharma Limited - Thank you for your support.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:31 Community support is crucial for shared experiences.

14:18 Anxiety common in menopause but manageable with help.

22:35 Exploring menopause symptoms post-cancer diagnosis experiences.

27:39 Assess HRT options with healthcare professional.

36:27 Non-hormonal menopause treatments: options and antidepressants.

42:11 Hormone therapy requires careful, personalised decision-making.

47:20 Exercise reduces cancer recurrence risk by 30%.

51:07 Access UK menopause resources for specialist care.

59:47 Find experienced specialist for post-cancer menopause management.

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

The combination of hormonal changes, metabolic alterations, muscle loss, fatigue, emotional factors, and medication side effects can make weight loss a significant challenge for women in menopause after cancer treatment. It can feel so depressing when after everything you have been through, the weight is piling on despite your best efforts.

In today’s episode, the brilliant registered dietician Nigel Denby will talk us through the truth about weight loss. We will bust some common myths and share effective strategies with you that are proven to work. 

For more information about Nigel and his work please visit: https://www.harleystathome.com/

We want to thank our partners https://mpowder.store/ for helping us get this episode out to all of you!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

09:15 Prepare, commit, time is crucial for women's health awareness.

12:59 Identify changes, take charge, and learn from mistakes.

22:20 Misleading marketing in health and wellness trends.

23:12 Tracking blood sugar is not necessarily beneficial for diet.

28:14 Eat vegetables, watch portion sizes, and eat mindfully.

31:51 Focus on putting goodness into ourselves daily.

33:06 Plan and be organised.

37:33 Cooking with a minimum of 6 ingredients for variety.

40:24 Fasting's role in weight loss and health.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Here is a link to MPowder: https://mpowder.store/

I believe that we need to tap into many “well-being buckets” in order to manage our menopause after a cancer diagnosis. 

I doubt that just by doing one thing alone we will feel as good as we want to and also deserve to feel. It’s also not about just managing our physical symptoms because we’re 3-dimensional human beings - and I think our approach to our health needs to be 3-dimensional too. 

So in today’s episode, I will talk you through how my well-being buckets evolved, what’s in them and why I think we need to have a few on hand so that we can nurture and tend to our ever-evolving us.

Mine are:

Diet

Movement

Mental Health

Medical Treatments (hormonal and non-hormonal)

Complementary Therapies

Triggers

The New Me

In this episode, I take you on a little journey of how each of those buckets was opened up to me and how that came about.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

Welcome to 2023!

Before I bring you lots of great experts again this year before we dive deep into the nitty-gritty of how to manage menopause after cancer… I wanted to welcome you to the new year with my 5 top tips that are relevant to anyone. Regardless of your cancer, how and why you are in menopause, you are welcome here and I hope you find my tips a useful guide for a clear and positive start to 2023!

With all my love,

Dani x

Here are the highlights:

(07:25) Start to say no

(10:19) Become a more difficult person

(13:38) Manage your expectations

(19:26) The no-comparison rule

(22:14) Find a menopause buddy 

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with Dani:

Instagram @healthywholeme  

Facebook: @healthywholeme  

Join Dani’s private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

For oodles of inspiration, healthy recipes, yoga classes and all round positivity go to her website: https://www.healthywholeme.com/

I’ve never met a fellow cancer survivor who has not struggled with anxiety. But what is anxiety, what’s depression or maybe what you have is PTSD? Menopause on top of that can make things much worse. 

On today's episode, we’re discussing all the proven and evidence based strategies that can help.

Our guest expert is the super knowledgable Dr Nina Fuller-Shavel, an Oxbridge-trained precision health and integrative medicine doctor with 7 degrees and over a decade’s experience in integrative healthcare and additional training in nutrition, herbal medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, yoga, mindfulness, and other therapeutic approaches. She’s a walking oracle. We’re so lucky to get the chance to speak to her. 

We discuss:

Is there hope in tackling anxiety?

How does anxiety present in patients?

The difference between anxiety and depression? How do I know what’s what?

Evidenced based strategies for managing anxiety? From medication to self-soothing techniques.

Let’s talk about coping with anxiety.

Please follow Dr Fuller-Shavel’s socials and sign up to her newsletter which can be found here https://www.synthesisclinic.co.uk/dr-nina-fullershavel

This is the ONCIO app: https://www.oncio.org/

Notes from Dr. Fuller-Shavel:

GAD-7 link - please see your GP or psychologist with the score to get an additional clinical assessment and support: https://patient.info/doctor/generalised-anxiety-disorder-assessment-gad-7

NICE guidelines for anxiety (general, not cancer-specific but outline treatment): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg113/chapter/Recommendations#stepped-care-for-people-with-gad

ASCO therapy guideline algorithm for conventional anxiety treatment in adults with cancer (US based but very clearly outline psychological treatment options): https://old-prod.asco.org/sites/new-www.asco.org/files/content-files/practice-patients/images/2023-Anxiety-Algorithms.pdf

SIO-ASCO guidelines - algorithms for integrative care of anxiety and depression symptoms in people with cancer: https://old-prod.asco.org/sites/new-www.asco.org/files/content-files/practice-and-guidelines/documents/2023-Integrative-Anxiety-Depression-Algorithms.pdf

PTSD - symptom criteria (please see a professional as soon as possible if you feel these apply to you for a full psychological assessment): https://www.brainline.org/article/dsm-5-criteria-ptsd

Episode highlights:

• [10:39] Anxiety symptoms include panic, palpitations, and catastrophising.
• [15:37] Self-care and seeking external support are essential.
• [24:39] Psychologist recommends an integrated approach for personalised therapy.
• [29:27] Guideline for cancer-related anxiety and depression treatments.
• [33:23] Tips for managing anxiety through accessible resources.
• [40:08] CBD may interact with medications, caution is advised. 
• [48:41] Trauma intervention...

We are thrilled to engage in a conversation with the remarkable breast oncologist, Dr Elizabeth Comen, hailing from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the US. Our focus is on unravelling the intricate history of women's hormones, as we embark on a journey to comprehend the missteps along the way.

“The history of women’s healthcare is a story in which women themselves have too often been voiceless—a narrative instead written from the perspective of men who styled themselves as authorities on the female of the species, yet uninformed by women’s own voices, thoughts, fears, pain and experiences. The result is a cultural and societal legacy that continues to shape the (mis)treatment and care of women”, writes Dr Comen.

“All in Her Head” is Dr Comen’s new book and wow - This book will upend everything you thought you knew about your body while empowering you to make better decisions moving forward. I can highly recommend it!

Buy the book here now: https://www.drelizabethcomen.com/book

There is more information on Dr Comen here https://www.drelizabethcomen.com/

JOIN US IN LEEDS: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/menopause-and-cancer-72544601233 

We want to thank our partners https://mpowder.store/ for helping us get this episode out to all of you!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

07:11 Women's underrepresentation and the impact of gender.

08:20 Hormones influence men and women differently.

16:04 Insufficient hormone studies for triple-negative breast cancer.

22:53 Medical education neglects women's sexual health needs.

26:53 Doctors must balance medical precision with empathy.

31:58 Ethical challenges in cancer care

35:44 Biology and fear for cancer survivors' future.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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:

Today I’m celebrating my birthday and it is a great opportunity to dive a little deeper into self-celebration. Yes! You heard correctly I want to challenge you in celebrating yourself today too - because it is not bragging or showing off - it’s actually OK!

Tune in for why it’s important, what it might mean for you and I will lead by example and celebrate myself openly on the podcast today!

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me. 

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences. 

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field. 

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

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