At 28, just a month after my birthday, I was diagnosed with stage 3 hormone-positive breast cancer. The news was shocking, especially since there was no family history or genetic predisposition. Growing up in a Hispanic household as a first-generation American added to the challenges. My immigrant parents were skeptical of the healthcare system, and discussing illness, particularly cancer, was taboo. Cancer was often seen as a death sentence, and I shared that fear because I knew so little about it.

While my family was supportive, they struggled to help me navigate the diagnosis, treatment options, or the importance of advocacy. Thankfully, my then-boyfriend (now fiancé) guided me through the process with his knowledge of medical terminology and treatment plans. His unwavering support was instrumental in my journey.

With a plan for surgeries and treatments in place, my life became a whirlwind of appointments and survival mode. After completing active treatment, I began hormone therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. But one unexpected side effect caught me by surprise—chemically induced menopause. Now, at 31, I find myself facing premature menopause, a challenge few are prepared for and even fewer talk about.

The Reality of Early Menopause

Menopause is something most women expect to face in their 50s. But for many young breast cancer survivors, treatment brings menopause much earlier. During chemo and radiation, I was so focused on survival that I didn’t fully understand the long-term implications. Once hormone therapy began, the symptoms hit: hot flashes, night sweats, joint pain, brain fog, weight gain, vaginal dryness, low libido, mood swings, and rising cholesterol. My body felt foreign, responding in ways I couldn’t control.

Year 3 Struggles

As I approached the third year of my five-year hormone therapy, on New Year’s Day, I broke down. I called my mom, and for the first time, I admitted how overwhelmed and isolated I felt. Even though my mom had gone through menopause, she couldn’t offer much advice. Ten years ago, menopause was a taboo subject, and women were often told to simply “deal with it.” The medical system had failed her, too.

While my oncologist mentioned some side effects, no one fully prepared me for what menopause at such a young age would entail. I was so focused on beating cancer that I had neglected other aspects of my health. Talking to my mom, I voiced my concerns about long-term neurological, cardiovascular, and metabolic health—areas crucial for anyone recovering from cancer.

Lack of Information and Preparation

One of the most frustrating parts of this journey has been the lack of information available to young women facing premature menopause due to cancer treatment. I scoured online resources and received vague answers from my oncologist about long-term health risks. When I asked for a referral to a menopause specialist, I was told, “We don’t have anyone.” This is a common experience, and it highlights the gaps in care that need addressing. Much of the information I needed simply wasn’t available, leaving me to navigate these changes largely on my own.

Taking Matters Into My Own Hands

Frustrated by the lack of help, I decided to take matters into my own hands. After some asking around, I found a menopause specialist with experience treating breast cancer patients. When I finally met with her, I felt relieved. She listened to my concerns—about weight gain, brain fog, and metabolic health—and connected me with other specialists, including a survivorship cancer doctor, cardiologist, and neuropsychologist.

Raising Awareness and Advocating for Change

It’s crucial to openly discuss the challenges of premature menopause, especially for young breast cancer survivors and women of color. We need to raise awareness and advocate for better resources and support. I don’t want other women to face the same struggle in finding care. We need to make this information accessible and ensure no one feels alone in navigating their health after cancer.