Amy Dowden's Fertility Fears After Cancer: 'I Don't Know My Options'

Amy Dowden Opens Up About Fertility, Menopause, and Life After Breast Cancer

Amy Dowden, a 34-year-old professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has shared her emotional journey following a breast cancer diagnosis. In 2023, she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and has since undergone a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. Her recent appearance on the Lorraine show highlighted the ongoing challenges she faces, including concerns about her fertility.

Dowden described the difficult period after completing her treatment, emphasizing that recovery is not as straightforward as many people might think. “After I rang the bell, came the longest journey of recovery, and I think people think you’re fine afterwards. But you’re really not,” she said. She explained that she still requires medication and monthly injections for at least five years. Additionally, she has been placed into menopause, which has raised questions about her future reproductive options.

“I don’t know what my options are going to look like still, if I’m going to be able to carry my own children,” she admitted. Despite these uncertainties, Dowden has found strength in her recovery. “I’m feeling stronger than ever now, 18 months after the end of my treatment,” she shared. She encouraged others to avoid comparing themselves to others and to be kind to themselves during such challenging times.

Dowden also discussed the fear she experienced in 2024 when she thought her cancer might have returned. While there is no set timeline for being declared “all clear,” many doctors consider patients in remission for five years or more to be effectively cured. Although her fears did not materialize, the experience left a lasting impact on her.

“Last year, when I went for my scans and they wanted more biopsies, they found a change in my breast, it was awful. I literally only found out seven days before starting Strictly, I couldn't even look forward to Strictly,” she recalled. The constant worry about the cancer returning is a reality she now lives with. “Every ache or pain, you're in fear of it returning, because you just don’t want to go through it all again, and you're worried for your loved ones.”

Despite the challenges, Dowden remains hopeful. “There's a new normality; you're never the same after a cancer diagnosis, but what I'll say is, we're stronger.”

Hopes for Motherhood

Dowden, who married fellow professional dancer Ben Jones in 2022, previously spoke about her desire to become a mother. During an appearance on Loose Women, she shared that while it would be too soon to start a family, she still hopes to one day become a mother. “I had hormone-fed cancer so I put my body into early menopause and it would be too dangerous now to conceive,” she explained. However, she expressed her deep longing to be a mother. “I've always wanted to be a mum. We do have five embryos and I hope one day, if it's safe to do so, I do get the privilege and honour to be someone's mummy.”

According to MacMillan Cancer Support, doctors typically advise patients to wait at least two years after cancer treatment before trying to get pregnant. This recommendation is based on the risk of cancer recurrence in the first few years after treatment.

Returning to Strictly Come Dancing

Dowden is confirmed to be returning to Strictly Come Dancing for the 2025 series. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire those around her. As she navigates life post-treatment, she remains focused on her future and the possibilities that lie ahead.

For those interested in learning more about breast cancer, there are several informative articles available:

• Breast cancer patients 'denied life-extending drugs because of unfair system'
• Breast-cancer checks could begin as young as 30 to catch disease early
• The breast cancer checks everyone needs to do, as Jessie J clarifies 'misunderstood' post

These resources provide valuable insights into the latest developments and support available for those affected by breast cancer.