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Cancer survivor irregular periods...any chance?

6 replies

SomewhatMental · 20/08/2024 12:57

Hi, just looking for any experiences similar to mine with ovarian insufficiency and irregular periods under 40. A bit of background. I already had two children when I was diagnosed with lymphoma 7 years ago, I was 24. I was pregnant with my third at the time, had chemo during the pregnancy, carried him to 8 months and he died sadly after a very rushed and traumatic c section due to placental insufficiency. Because I was pregnant during my first 6 rounds of chemo nothing could really be done to preserve my fertility. After I lost my baby unfortunately the cancer was still there and I needed more chemo, this time a stronger type and I was warned it would leave me infertile. I also had a stem cell/bone marrow transplant which I was told would further affect my fertility. This was only a few months after I lost my baby, they asked me about going to London to freeze ovarian tissue but honestly I was still grieving and in no right state physically or mentally to get a train into London to go through something I was told has a very low success rate.

So here I am age 32 6/7 years later, I've been cancer free for 6 years (thankfully) and I've been having blood tests every few years to check my hormones. I had no bleeding at all from 2018-2021, but since 2022 I've been having "periods" or period like bleeding a few times a year. Last year I had 5 such episodes. In 2019 I was told I was menopausal (age 26), and my blood tests in 2020 and 2021 showed very high FSH levels which is apparently bad. Each time I've had a blood test to check my levels my GP has said 'it's not impossible for you to get pregnant, but very very unlikely'. I'm at a loss as to what else I can do from here. I had monthly bleeds from January until April this year, but since then, nothing. I really don't know what to think. Anyone had cycles that just suddenly stopped?

OP posts:
sirensong · 20/08/2024 13:57

Really sorry you went through so much.

Is your GP's assessment based entirely on your FSH level or the results of other tests? Have you also seen a specialist?

StressStress · 20/08/2024 14:04

I was sad to read your story, you're a real fighter. Your question is very specific. You should ask a fertility professional. Take heart, keep us informed.
🩷🙏

Saltysnack2003 · 20/08/2024 14:18

I'm really sorry to hear your story and can't imagine what it has felt like to go through all of that.

Have you thought about contacting Mummy's Star? You may already be in touch with them, but they support Mothers who have had cancer, suffered loss, questions about menopause/ fertility etc. They have lots of resources specific for Mum's who have had cancer. They also have a forum you can access which may be a good place to ask your question. I am sure you will find others in similar situations who may be able to offer advice. I would really encourage you to speak to them. They are brilliant.

SomewhatMental · 20/08/2024 14:33

My GP said it was also because of other findings aswell in that blood test in 2021 that showed I had hormone levels of someone who is definitely post menopausal..and very unlikely to be ovulating at all. I'm going to have another blood test next month when I have my check up with him. I'm hopeful something might have changed in 3 years but the sudden stop of bleeds is making me feel quite pessimistic about it :( I have considered seeing a specialist but I'm not sure where to start...what tests I should be asking for apart from what my GP has already done?

OP posts:
sirensong · 20/08/2024 14:47

@SomewhatMental get a private AMH blood test done and see if your GP will refer you for a scan to check your ovarian follicle count. You could otherwise also pay for a private scan. Can you remember your previous FSH level?

Although you already have childen your GP may still be prepared to refer you to an oncology fertility specialist to establish the status of your eggs because of your treatment.

sel2223 · 20/08/2024 15:26

I couldn't scroll past without coming on to comment. I am so pleased you survived this but so sorry for the loss of your baby, I can't even imagine.

I'm not sure anyone but a doctor can really give you the answers you are looking for. Could you be referred to a fertility specialist to discuss your test results and options? Maybe donor eggs could be something to look into?

My cousin aged 31 is currently going through chemo and is also going through the menopause because of the treatment. Fortunately in her case there was time for a single cycle of egg retrieval before she started but, even then, there is no guarantee.

I am so sorry you are going through this now after everything else you have been through. Thank goodness for your 2 healthy children.

Good luck

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