Menopause or Malignancy? How to Tell the Difference, Doctor Explains

A little awareness goes a long way
"Is it just menopause… or should I be worried?"

This article is written by Dr. Jyotsana Goyal, Consultant - Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery, Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector-8, Faridabad.

As a female Surgical Oncologist that’s a question I hear more often than you’d imagine. So, to distinguish menopause from malignancy, it's crucial to understand the overlapping symptoms and identify the "red flag" signs that warrant medical evaluation.

Menopause typically occurs in women aged 45–55 and is defined by the end of menstruation for 12 consecutive months. Symptoms of Menopause are associated with a variety of hormonal changes, while cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can develop in different parts of the body, including the reproductive organs.

Unfortunately, some menopausal symptoms can resemble early cancer signs, leading to confusion and delayed diagnosis.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Most menopausal changes are due to hormonal imbalance and tend to settle with time. Typical symptoms include:

• Irregular periods that gradually stop.
• Hot flashes and night sweats.
• Mood swings and irritability.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex.
• Bladder symptoms such as urgency or incontinence.
• Weight gain, belly bloating and body composition changes
• Fatigue and joint pain

Bleeding post-menopause is the most concerning sign for uterine or cervical cancer and should always prompt urgent evaluation.

ALSO READ- Perimenopause: How Indian Women Can Navigate The Transition With Nutrition, Lifestyle, And Mindset

Similarly, persistent abdominal symptoms may suggest ovarian or gastrointestinal cancers.

The 'Red Flag' Signs

Here are the signs one should be concerned about:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, post-menopausal (after periods have stopped).
• Persistent, unexplained pain in the abdomen or pelvis.
• Unintentional, significant weight loss.
• Extreme, persistent fatigue not relieved by rest.
• Persistent bloating, loss of appetite, or difficulty eating.
• Changes in bowel habits or urinary symptoms not explained by menopause

When to Seek Medical Help

Most menopausal symptoms are manageable and improve over time. However, malignancy-related symptoms typically persist, worsen, or affect overall health. A health professional should be involved whenever "red flag" symptoms arise, as timely diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.

Regular check-ups and screening for cancers, especially after the age of 45, including Pap smears, mammograms, and pelvic ultrasounds can help in early detection and better outcomes.

Listen, act, and stay aware

Menopause marks a new beginning, not the end of vitality. Embrace it, but stay alert. The difference between menopause and malignancy can be life-changing, and awareness is your strongest weapon.
Because when it comes to your health, knowing the difference can make all the difference.