Hormone therapy (also called endocrine therapy) is a common treatment used in many cancers, including breast, prostate, ovarian, uterine, and some head and neck cancers. It works by blocking or lowering hormone levels in the body to slow or stop cancer growth. While incredibly effective, hormone therapy can impact many systems in the body—from your bones and muscles to your pelvic floor and emotional health. 

At Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre, we help patients navigate these changes with evidence-informed, personalized rehabilitation care. Whether you’re newly starting hormone therapy or have been on it for years, our team is here to help you feel stronger, steadier, and more like yourself.  

How Hormone Therapy Can Affect the Body 

Hormones play an important role in maintaining bone density, muscle mass, metabolism, and sexual health. When their levels are altered—either suppressed or blocked—it can result in a variety of side effects that impact daily life, including: 

• Bone loss and increased risk of osteoporosis 
• Muscle aches, stiffness, or joint pain 
• Fatigue or decreased endurance 
• Hot flashes, night sweats, or mood swings 
• Pelvic floor dysfunction, including incontinence or discomfort with intimacy (in all genders) 
• Changes in libido, erectile function, or vaginal dryness 
• Weight gain or shifts in body composition 

These changes can feel frustrating or unexpected, but they are treatable. With the right support, you can reduce their impact and continue doing the things that matter most to you.  

Why Rehabilitation Matters

Hormone therapy is often long-term—lasting months or even years. This makes proactive, supportive care essential for managing side effects before they interfere with your health or quality of life. 

Our cancer rehab team includes physiotherapists, kinesiologists, dietitians, pelvic health therapists, and psychotherapists who work together to support every aspect of your recovery. 

Depending on your needs, your rehab plan may include: 

• Weight-bearing and resistance exercises to help maintain or improve bone density 
• Cardiovascular conditioning to support energy, heart health, and metabolism 
• Pelvic floor physiotherapy for bladder, bowel, or sexual function changes (available for all genders) 
• Manual therapy for joint and muscle pain 
• Education on osteoporosis prevention and safe movement strategies 
• Mental health support for managing mood changes, identity shifts, or intimacy concerns 

Even if you’re not currently experiencing symptoms, the best time to begin rehabilitation is often before side effects show up. We offer in-person care at our Ottawa clinic, as well as virtual appointments for convenience and accessibility. Whether you need help managing joint pain, bone health, pelvic concerns, or simply want to feel more energized, our team is ready to support you.