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Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors: Thriving After Treatment

Updated: Jan 27

By Dr. Corinne Menn


Breast cancer survivorship is about more than treatment—it’s about thriving. Dr. Corinne Menn shares vital strategies for reclaiming health, managing menopause, and living vibrantly after breast cancer. Explore how to transition from surviving to truly thriving.


Dr. Corinne Menn, board-certified Ob/gyn, breast cancer survivor and advocate, menopause specialist.


As someone who has walked the path of breast cancer survivorship—both personally and as a physician—I am passionate about helping breast cancer survivors transition from surviving to thriving. Let’s explore how to reclaim your health, well-being, and quality of life after breast cancer.


What Does it Mean to Thrive After Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer survivorship is about more than completing treatment—it’s about living a vibrant, fulfilling life. With over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, this growing community faces unique challenges, particularly regarding menopause management, heart health, bone health, and sexual wellness.


Premature menopause, often triggered by cancer treatments like chemotherapy or ovarian suppression, accelerates health risks such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. Addressing these health concerns is critical for breast cancer survivors to truly thrive.


Do Hormones Cause Breast Cancer? Let’s Clear the Air

One of the most common concerns among breast cancer survivors is whether menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) increases breast cancer risk. The good news is that decades of research confirm MHT does not cause breast cancer. Survivors, including those with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) cancers, often worry about treatments like vaginal estrogen. However, organizations such as The Menopause Society and ASCO agree that these low dose vaginal estrogen therapies are safe for most survivors—even those on tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors.


For systemic hormone therapy, the decision should involve shared decision-making between the survivor and their healthcare provider. Every journey is unique, and the risks and benefits should be thoughtfully evaluated to create a personalized approach.


Essential Health Strategies for Breast Cancer Survivors

Thriving after breast cancer means addressing both immediate and long-term health needs. Here are some key areas to focus on:


  • Bone and Heart Health: Cancer treatments and premature menopause can significantly increase the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Weight-bearing exercise, proper nutrition, and hormone therapy may help mitigate these risks.

  • Managing Menopause Symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness can severely impact daily life. Effective treatments, including localized hormone therapy, are available to help alleviate these symptoms.

  • Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being: Survivors often experience anxiety, depression, and brain fog. These challenges require a holistic approach, including lifestyle changes, therapy, and appropriate medical support.


Be Your Own Advocate

Breast cancer survivors deserve comprehensive care that goes beyond treatment. Advocacy starts with education. My own journey through premature menopause taught me the importance of asking questions and seeking out accurate information. For years, I believed I had no options—until I educated myself and discovered otherwise. I now encourage survivors to explore their health options and demand nuanced conversations with healthcare providers.


You deserve to thrive, and survivorship should be about much more than simply getting by. Life after breast cancer can be vibrant, fulfilling, and centered on your well-being.


Exclusive Retreat for Breast Cancer Survivors

Join me and my colleague, Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, for a 6-day luxury retreat designed to connect, heal, and rejuvenate. This transformative experience is tailored for breast cancer survivors and healthcare professionals who support them.


Set at the stunning 5-star Penha Longa Retreat in Sintra, Portugal, this exclusive retreat combines expert knowledge, meaningful connections, and practical tools to help you thrive. Together, we’ll focus on optimizing your health, addressing menopause concerns, and empowering your journey to wellness.


This retreat offers the perfect blend of education, inspiration, and relaxation in a serene setting. Learn evidence-based strategies for managing health risks, improving quality of life, and fostering mental and emotional well-being—all while forming connections with a supportive community of peers and experts.


Reserve Your Spot Today

Don’t miss this opportunity to embrace life after breast cancer fully. Reserve your spot at the Thriving After Breast Cancer Retreat in Sintra, Portugal, and take the next step in your healing journey.


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