Prevalence of menopausal symptoms among young gestational trophoblastic neoplasia survivors and its relationship to their health-related quality of life.
- Author:
Victoria May Hembrador VELASCO-REDONDO
1
;
Maria Stephanie Fay Samadan CAGAYAN
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article, Original
- MeSH: Human; Chemotherapy; Drug Therapy; Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia; Gestational Trophoblastic Disease; Menopause
- From: Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2025;49(2):114-120
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Since the advent of chemotherapy, cure rates for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) have improved significantly. With increased survival, patients must cope with long-term sequelae of their treatment, including early menopause. Unlike natural menopause, treatment-induced menopause may cause a sudden and dramatic decline in estrogen, which can lead to more severe symptoms.
OBJECTIVESThis study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of menopausal symptoms among young GTN survivors and to determine the impact of these symptoms on their health-related quality of life (QoL).
METHODOLOGYNinety GTN survivors (RESULTS
A total of 90 patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 33.06 years. Majority (81.1%) reported at least one menopausal symptom. The most prevalent symptoms were psychological symptoms, followed by somatic, then urogenital problems. Among those with an intact uterus, 8.2% reported permanent amenorrhea. Only Stage III/IV and the presence of total hysterectomy were significantly associated with menopausal symptoms. The presence of menopausal symptoms was significantly associated with poorer health-related QoL among the respondents.
CONCLUSIONMenopausal symptoms are prevalent among young GTN survivors, and these negatively affect their health-related QoL. Emphasis should be placed on recognizing and addressing these symptoms. Adjunctive procedures, especially hysterectomy, should be carefully considered because these are significantly associated with menopausal symptoms.