Can women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations use menopausal hormone therapy if they have not had cancer?
Yes, women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations who have not had cancer can use menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). Here at Alloy, we follow the guidance of The Menopause Society and leading experts, which is clear: having a BRCA mutation alone is not a reason to deny hormone therapy, even if you have not had your ovaries or breasts removed. The data shows that hormone therapy does not further increase your already elevated baseline risk of breast cancer due to the BRCA mutation.
This is especially important for women who have had their ovaries removed to reduce ovarian cancer risk and are experiencing premature menopause. Hormone therapy can be safely considered to manage symptoms and protect long-term health.
For a detailed explanation from Dr. Corinne Menn, a menopause specialist and breast cancer survivor, watch the chapter "Hormone Therapy for BRCA Carriers Without Cancer" in our YouTube video: Watch here.
You can also hear more about the science and guidelines in the chapter "BRCA Mutations and Hormone Therapy": Watch here.
If you want to explore your options for menopause symptom relief, check out our range of MHT products and learn more about how we support women with high-risk genetic backgrounds on our Menopause & Breast Cancer FAQ page.
At Alloy, we believe in empowering you with the latest evidence and supporting you in making the best decision for your health.
This answer was created using the following resources:
- Hormone Therapy 101 with Alloy’s Very Own Dr. Corinne Menn! - Hormone Therapy for BRCA Carriers Without Cancer
- Hormone Therapy 101 (pt.3) | Dr. Corinne Menn - BRCA Mutations and Hormone Therapy
- WATCH: Menopause, Breast Cancer, and the Journey Forward | Dr. Avrum Bluming & Dr. Corinne Menn
- Menopause and Breast Cancer: Dr. Bluming's Guide
- NAMS Issues Updated Guidelines on Hormones