029 - Life after Breast Cancer - Kirsty Lang and Dr Louise Newson

In this week's podcast, Dr Louise Newson is speaking to journalist Kirsty Lang about her experience with Breast Cancer and how life has been since her recovery. Together, they discuss the treatment that Kirsty received and the side-effects that she experienced from some of the medication, particularly those that blocked the effects of estrogen in her body. Kirsty talks openly about her menopausal symptoms relating to vaginal dryness and reduced libido and Dr Newson explains the effective treatment options available for these symptoms. They also talk about the differences between information given to men who have prostate cancer and women who have breast cancer. Men are usually given far more information than women, especially regarding the sexual problems that can arise during cancer treatment, and clearly this needs to change. 

Click here to listen to Kirsty Lang talk about breast cancer in Liz Earle's weekly podcast.

Kirsty's Three Take Home Tips for dealing with menopause after cancer:

1. Try local vaginal oestrogen for vaginal dryness
2. If you are struggling massively, go to your GP/surgeon/oncologist and don't be afraid to ask for help
3. Don't feel like you have to struggle just because you've survived breast cancer. It's not true, there is help out there for you!