Does a strong family history of breast cancer automatically rule out menopausal hormone therapy?

A strong family history of breast cancer does NOT automatically rule out menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). Here at Alloy, we follow the latest evidence and expert guidelines, which make it clear that family history alone is not a contraindication for MHT. In fact, both The Menopause Society and leading experts like Dr. Avrum Bluming and Dr. Corinne Menn emphasize that your personal risk should be assessed individually, and that MHT can be considered even if you have a family history or are a BRCA carrier (but have not had breast cancer yourself).

Key points to know:

• Family history of breast cancer does not disqualify you from using MHT.
• The decision to use hormone therapy should be based on your individual risk, preferences, and a discussion with a menopause-trained healthcare provider.
• Current evidence shows that bioidentical estrogen and progesterone (the type offered at Alloy) do not increase breast cancer risk.
• If you have a strong family history, genetic testing and enhanced screening may be recommended, but this is separate from the decision about MHT.

For a deeper dive, check out these helpful resources:

• Watch our YouTube video chapter on Family History and Hormone Therapy, which directly addresses your question.
• See Dr. Corinne Menn’s detailed answer in the Hormone Therapy and Family History of Breast Cancer chapter.
• Read more in our Breast Cancer FAQs and Menopause & Breast Cancer blog post.

If you’re interested in learning about Alloy’s bioidentical hormone therapy options, visit our product page or start with our online assessment.

At Alloy, we’re here to empower you with science-backed information and personalized care!

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This answer was created using the following resources:

• Can You Take MHT if Breast Cancer Runs in Your Family?
• Hormone Therapy 101 (pt.3) | Dr. Corinne Menn - Hormone Therapy and Family History of Breast Cancer
• Menopause Awareness Month x Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Estrogen and Breast Cancer Risk
• Your Menopause Questions Answered | Dr. Sharon Malone - Family History and Hormone Therapy
• Can You Take Hormones with a Family History of Breast Cancer? | Dr. Corinne Menn
• Is Family History of Breast Cancer a Contraindication to MHT?
• Hormone Therapy 101 with Alloy’s Very Own Dr. Corinne Menn! - Hormone Therapy for BRCA Carriers Without Cancer
• Menopause and Breast Cancer: Dr. Bluming's Guide
• Menopause Hormone Guide: Expert Insights
• Estrogen Alone Tied to Lower Breast Cancer Risk in UK Study
• NAMS Issues Updated Guidelines on Hormones