Alleviating Menopausal Symptoms? The Prevalence, Perceived Effectiveness and Information Source of Dietary and Botanical Supplements Among Predominantly Breast Cancer Survivors Experiencing Iatrogenic Menopause

Background Cancer survivors experiencing iatrogenic menopause often have abrupt and severe menopausal symptoms. Many use dietary and botanical supplements to manage symptoms. Patterns of supplement use, information sources, and disclosure to healthcare providers are poorly understood. This study aimed to describe supplement use among women diagnosed with cancer experiencing iatrogenic menopause, explore perceived effectiveness, identify information sources and examine factors influencing disclosure to healthcare professionals. Methods A cross-sectional online survey (32 items), adapted from Hauer et al. (2023) and reported in accordance with STROBE guidelines, was conducted in Ireland between March and October 2025. Participants were adults assigned female at birth with a current or prior cancer diagnosis experiencing menopausal symptoms. Data were analysed descriptively in R, with open-text responses thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke's framework. Results Of 108 respondents, 75 met inclusion criteria. Most were aged 30 to 59 years (93.3%), employed (73.3%), and had completed post-secondary education (84%), including third-level (57.3%) and postgraduate qualifications (26.7%). Breast cancer was the predominant diagnosis (85%), 70% reported endocrine therapy receipt, and 79% attributed symptoms to iatrogenic menopause. Supplement use was common: 67% used vitamins/minerals and 47% used botanical products, with 39% using both. Magnesium, vitamin D, calcium, melatonin, Asian Mushrooms and turmeric were most frequently reported. Supplements were rated as very effective by 20-30%. Online sources were the primary information source, and only 53% disclosed supplement use to their medical team. Conclusion Supplement use is common among this predominantly breast cancer survivor sample experiencing menopausal symptoms. The internet and social media were the most common information sources and only half of participants disclosed supplement use to healthcare professionals. Improved communication and evidence-based guidance are needed to support safe survivorship care.