Katie Thurston Gives Candid Look at Being in ‘Medically Induced Menopause’ at 34 Amid Cancer Battle

Table of Contents

Katie Thurston Opens Up About Medically Induced Menopause at 34 Amid Cancer Battle

Former Bachelorette star Katie Thurston is sharing an unfiltered look at her health journey after being thrust into medically induced menopause at age 34 following a cancer-related hysterectomy.

💔 Her Diagnosis & Surgery

Thurston underwent a full hysterectomy (removal of uterus, cervix, and ovaries) in May 2024 after a pre-cancerous cell discovery (likely linked to HPV).

The procedure triggered surgical menopause, meaning her body no longer produces estrogen naturally.

🔥 Her Menopause Symptoms

In a candid Instagram Q&A, Thurston revealed:

Severe hot flashes (“I wake up drenched in sweat”).
Mood swings & anxiety (“Hormones are wild”).
Vaginal dryness & pain (“It’s not just about sex—it affects daily life”).

Brain fog & fatigue (“I forget words mid-sentence”).

💊 Her Treatment Plan

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): She uses estrogen patches to manage symptoms but admits it’s a “trial-and-error process.”
Alternative Therapies: Cold showers, acupuncture, and therapy for mental health.

Advocacy: Urges women to demand hormone testing if something feels “off.”

💬 Why She’s Speaking Out

“No one prepared me for this.” Many women face menopause with little guidance.
“It’s not just ‘older women’s’ issue.” Surgical menopause affects 1 in 100 women under 40.

“I’m grieving my fertility.” Though child-free by choice, she acknowledges the emotional weight of losing options.

💖 Support from Fans & Friends

Fellow Bachelor alum Tayshia Adams (who also experienced early menopause) offered advice.
Followers praise her for normalizing “taboo” symptoms like painful sex and incontinence.

🚨 Why This Matters

Awareness Gap: Many doctors dismiss young women’s menopause symptoms as “stress.”
Cancer Survivors: Those with hysterectomies (like Angelina Jolie) often face menopause abruptly.
HRT Risks: Not all women can take hormones (e.g., some breast cancer survivors), leaving few options.

Thurston’s message: “Your pain is valid. Keep pushing for answers.”

Want to help? Donate to organizations like The Menopause Foundation or HPV cancer research.

(Sources: Katie’s Instagram @katiethurston, interviews with People Magazine)