My gynecologist has had me on the highest available dose of replacement estrogen post-hysterectomy, but claims it does not raise the risk of breast cancer- is this true?

By Anonymous December 29, 2012 - 1:32am

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I've read a lot of conflicting info online on the topic, but have yet to seek a second opinion from a doctor. I had a "full hysterectomy" (uterus, tubes, and ovaries were completely removed) 3.5 years ago at the age of 26. I was initially on a moderate dose of replacement estrogen for two years, but the previous prescribing doctor (who is also the one who performed the surgery) retired. I began seeing his colleague, and she was worried that being on such a low dose in relation to my age would result in osteoporosis. I have been on the higher dose for one year, but miss the emotional stability I experienced when on the lower dose. When I reminded the doctor that my mother died of ductal carcinoma at age 54 and I am subsequently concerned about already being at a higher risk of breast cancer, the doctor said that the studies linking breast cancer and RHT had been recently debunked. Is this true?

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Anonymous

Hi miscortes, thanks for taking the time to reply- but I hope my post implied a level of education and research skills that wouldn't be satisfied by a simple link to ACA. I was hoping for detailed information that either dismisses or confirms my gynecologist's assertions.

January 6, 2013 - 10:47pm

Anonymous

Hi ANonymous, Unfortunately, the answer is we really don't know. There are testing and future studies on this subject being conducted but in reality science is constant. I am providing you this link to the American Cancer Society which documents "what we know" about breast cancer which you may find helpful. Good luck, http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-ri... MissieDecember 30, 2012 - 6:55am