On this episode of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, we’re marking Anal Cancer Awareness Day (21 March) by shining a light on a cancer that is often misunderstood, stigmatised, and rarely talked about.

Anal cancer is caused by HPV, just like cervical cancer, yet it doesn’t receive the same awareness or open conversation. It might not feel as “pink” or as socially comfortable to talk about as breast cancer. It’s not a cancer that gets glossy campaigns or big awareness drives. There’s often stigma. There’s embarrassment. There’s silence.

And that silence can leave people feeling incredibly alone.

I’m joined by Ali, who shares her honest experience of being diagnosed with anal cancer; what treatment involved, the physical and emotional impact, and how it affected her confidence, menopause and sexual wellbeing.

We also explore an important question: can treatment for anal cancer induce menopause?

Pelvic radiotherapy and chemotherapy can affect ovarian function, sometimes triggering sudden or early menopause. We discuss what that means, and whether HRT or local oestrogen may be options.

This episode is about inclusion.

It’s about making sure everyone — regardless of cancer type — feels seen in menopause conversations.

If you’ve ever felt that your cancer isn’t the “right” kind to talk about, this episode is for you.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:33 Cancer Diagnosis: Fear and Isolation

12:15 "Stage 3 Cancer Challenges"

14:32 "Breaking Stigma Around Cancer"

23:22 "Menopause, HRT, and Cancer Journey"

27:07 Burnout, Anxiety, and Menopause Journey

30:36 "Pelvic Radiotherapy: Long-Term Impacts"

36:01 "Barbie Butt: Finding Joy Amid Struggles"

41:38 "Menopause, Cancer, and Support Gaps"

About our guest Ali:

Ali Stripling is a qualified Menopause Wellness Practitioner who was diagnosed with Stage 3 anal cancer in October 2024. She now speaks in workplaces about menopause, cancer and life in remission. Ali is also the author of #TweakAWeek, a practical framework helping perimenopausal women make positive changes without overwhelm. https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistripling/

Links:

Macmillan Anal Cancer Support Forum: https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/anal-cancer-forum

The Farrah Fawcett Foundation https://thefarrahfawcettfoundation.org/

This podcast episode was supported by an unrestricted grant from Incyte Biosciences. Incyte had no involvement in the development, content, or editorial review of the activities associated with this initiative.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub