Estrogen Therapy: Connecting the Studies to the Headlines

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: December 23, 2010

The dilemma to take or not to take hormones is a real one that many women face. It is one that requires a discussion with your clinician as part of the decision making process. The arguments of pros and cons can be daunting to the average woman experiencing menopause symptoms. But, there certainly has been some light at the end of the tunnel for women taking estrogen alone.

The information we are writing about is not intended to be an answer. And, we are not taking sides. But, if you are on the fence, the new data released has shown some benefits in women who had hysterectomies and took only estrogen. The study data showed a statistically significant lower risk of breast cancer among estrogen users who did not have a family history of breast cancer. Whether you are a Yea Sayer, Nay Sayer, or a Fence Straddler, you should take the following information to your clinician. And, don’t be afraid to ask questions, no matter how embarrassing or trivial you may think they are and make sure you get satisfying answers. Here are several important articles that have recently been published following an annual symposium on breast cancer that may be of interest to you and your clinician:

Estrogen alone provides protective effect in breast cancer risk reduction – 33rd Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium

Estrogen Alone Enough To Lower Breast Cancer Risk –

“Provocative” Reveals Estrogen-Only Therapy Lowers Risk Of Breast Cancer

Benefits of Estrogen Are Debated – The New York Times

Estrogen-Only Hormone Therapy May Reduce Breast Cancer Risk for Some – HealthDay

Study: Estrogen-Only Therapy May Reduce Breast Cancer Risk Experts Say Finding Sends Conflicting Messages to Women – ABC News