Sussex clinic supports cancer patients through treatment-induced menopause

A specialist NHS clinic in Sussex is helping breast cancer patients manage severe menopause symptoms triggered or worsened by their treatment.

Chemotherapy, ovarian suppression and endocrine therapies can cause an abrupt menopause or menopause-like symptoms, including hot flushes, fatigue, joint pain, disrupted sleep, low mood, brain fog and changes to sexual health. These effects can continue long after a patient’s initial cancer treatment has ended.

University Hospitals Sussex launched the pilot Integrative Menopause Support Clinic within its breast service to provide more joined-up support. Patients receive extended appointments covering their wider health and quality of life, with options including exercise, lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioural therapy, acupuncture and suitable non-hormonal medicines.

The clinic works closely with oncology teams and pharmacists to ensure recommendations are appropriate for each patient’s cancer history. Referrals can be made by GPs, surgeons, breast care nurses or oncology teams.

Around 100 patients have received support since the pilot began in 2025. New funding from the Sussex Cancer Fund will now help develop the service for more people across Sussex, including patients affected by breast and gynaecological cancers.

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