Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Many women undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to reduce symptoms of menopause. There are 2 main types of HRT:
- Oestrogen only HRT
- Combined HRT (oestrogen and progesterone)
There is an increased risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women using any type of therapy. It is more likely to have breast cancer for those women who use combined HRT. The risk is even higher for those who have been using HRT for more than 5 years. And the risk remains increased for those women for at least 10 years after they stop using it.
HRT can bring health benefits. So, if you’re worried about taking one of these therapies, explore the benefits and risks to your individual situation with your doctor.