Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Debunking Common Myths About HRT

Every October, we pause to reflect, honor, and raise awareness for the women and families impacted by breast cancer. It’s also a time to separate fact from fear, especially when it comes to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), one of the most misunderstood areas in women’s health.

If you’ve hesitated to explore HRT because of something you read online, you’re not alone. Let’s take a look at the most common myths people search for, what the science really says, and how to have an informed conversation with your provider.

Myth 1: “HRT Always Causes Breast Cancer”

Fact: The relationship between HRT and breast cancer is complex, not absolute.

• Combined estrogen + progestin therapy has been linked to a modest increase in breast cancer risk, especially with long-term use (over 5 years).
• Estrogen-only HRT, used by women who’ve had a hysterectomy, shows little to no increased risk — and may even slightly reduce it in some cases.

In short: HRT doesn’t “cause” breast cancer, but certain types, at certain doses, may influence risk over time.

Myth 2: “If You Have a Family History of Breast Cancer, You Can’t Use HRT”

Fact: Family history doesn’t automatically mean HRT is off the table.
Recent studies show that short-term, medically supervised use carries only a slight increase in risk, even for women with a family history of breast cancer.

The key is personalized care. At SynergenX, our provider will evaluate your family background, hormone type, dose, and overall risk before prescribing.

Myth 3: “All HRT Is Equally Risky”

Fact: Not all hormone therapies are created equal.

• Risk varies by type, dosage, and delivery method.
• Transdermal (patch or gel) forms of estrogen and lower doses tend to have lower associated risks.
• Non-systemic (vaginal) estrogen treatments have not been shown to increase breast cancer risk.

Myth 4: “Once You Use HRT, You’re at Higher Risk Forever“

Fact: The increased risk does not last indefinitely.
Most studies show that after stopping HRT, breast cancer risk returns to baseline within about five years.

Myth 5: “Estrogen-Only HRT Is Completely Safe”

Fact: While estrogen-only HRT carries a lower breast cancer risk, it isn’t risk-free.
For women with a uterus, taking estrogen alone can increase endometrial cancer risk, which is why progesterone is added for balance and protection.

A Note from Our Medical Team

“There’s a lot of unnecessary fear surrounding hormone therapy. HRT isn’t inherently dangerous. It’s more about finding the right type, dose, and duration for each woman. When managed responsibly, it can dramatically improve quality of life without significantly increasing breast cancer risk.”
— Michael Seay, MSN, APRN, NP-C

People Also Ask

Q: Does HRT increase breast cancer risk?
A: Some forms, like combined estrogen-progestin, may slightly increase risk after 3–5 years of use. Estrogen-only HRT generally has a lower risk and may be suitable for women without a uterus.

Q: Is HRT safe for women with a family history of breast cancer?
A: Often, yes, with medical supervision. Individual risk assessment is essential, and short-term use can be safe for many women.

Q: Does HRT affect breast density?
A: It can temporarily increase breast density, which may make mammogram results harder to interpret, another reason regular screening is important.

Q: Can I use HRT after breast cancer?
A: Women with a history of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer are usually advised to avoid systemic HRT unless directed by an oncologist.

Our Takeaway

Hormone therapy shouldn’t be viewed through fear alone. For many women, the benefits of HRT — improved mood, energy, sleep, and bone health — outweigh the small and reversible risk increase when monitored by a medical professional.

If you’re considering HRT, your best step is an evaluation with a trusted provider, at SynergenX or otherwise. Together, you can determine the safest and most effective approach for your unique body.

Sources

1. Beral V. et al. Type and timing of menopausal hormone therapy and breast cancer risk. The Lancet. 2019;394(10204):1159–1168. The Lancet
2. National Institute for Health and Care Research. Risk of breast cancer with HRT depends on therapy type and duration. NIHR Evidence
3. NHS. Benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). NHS UK
4. Cancer Research UK. Does hormone replacement therapy increase cancer risk? CancerResearchUK.org
5. BreastCancer.org. HRT and Breast Cancer Risk. BreastCancer.org
6. ICR. Short-term HRT use and family history of breast cancer. icr.ac.uk