No, hormone therapy does not directly cause cancer. However, depending on your personal level of risk, hormone therapy can increase the risk of developing certain kinds of cancer, such as breast cancer or ovarian cancer.
The risk of breast cancer increases the longer you take hormone therapy and the older you are. There is little increase in the risk of breast cancer from estrogen-only hormone therapy. Doctors give this to people who have had their uterus removed through a procedure called hysterectomy.
If you’re under 60 years old and you’re not at risk of breast cancer, blood clots, or stroke, then the benefits of hormone therapy likely outweigh any potential risks.
Be sure to discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor. They can advise whether this is the best treatment method for you.
Hormone therapy is useful in treating menopause symptoms such as:
- hot flashes
- night sweats
- sleeping problems
- anxiety and low mood
- vaginal dryness
Hormone therapy can also help prevent osteoporosis by increasing your levels of estrogen. Estrogen helps strengthen your bones.
It’s important to inform your doctor of your medical history so they can create the best treatment plan for you. Things to tell your doctor about include whether you have had any of the following:
- allergic reaction to estrogen or progestin
- breast cancer or are considered high risk due to family history
- a blood clot in a vein (thrombosis), such as in your legs or your lungs
- liver disease
- stroke or heart attack
- certain conditions, such as:
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- underactive thyroid
- migraine
- lupus
- epilepsy
Also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Reach out to your doctor if you’re considering hormone therapy. They can review your medical history and advise on the best treatment that suits your needs.