This study aimed to investigate the factors of occurrence of amenorrhea and the severity of climacteric symptoms in breast cancer patients who underwent chemotherapy.

Women diagnosed with breast cancer without metastasis or recurrence, had surgery followed by chemotherapy, and had menses at the time of surgery were recruited from S hospital located in Seoul. A total of 99 women aged 31 thru 55 years participated and filled out a structured questionnaire including the Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy-Breast plus Endocrine Symptom when they visited the clinic for follow-up.

In 88 women amenorrhea occurred within an average of 2 months since beginning chemotherapy, and menstruation was resumed in only 11 women. About 98% of women aged over 40 experienced a cessation in menses thus age was an apparent factor of amenorrhea (Exp(B)=.76, p<.05). Presence of chronic disease (β=.25, p<.05) and body weight change (β=.30, p<.01) were significant factors influencing the severity of climacteric symptoms.

Nurses need to have clinical evidences of menstrual changes due to breast cancer treatment. Information about premature menopause and climacteric symptoms should be provided according to women's health conditions so that they cope better during their survival.