hormones, for how long?

Dear Sisters,
I had my surgery (TAH, removed both ovaries) on 9/15. I was put on estradiol, 1mg. My surgeon said that I should review that with my doctor after 2 years. I've read that when taking hormones one should review it with one's doctor every 6 months to 1 year. I have recently moved and my nurse practitioner said that, with a history of breast cancer in my family, she thinks that I should start cutting back on my hormone replacement this month. Anyone have any words of wisdom on this subject? Thanks.
Peace.

Hi gretchen59

You might be best seeking advise from the hormone jungle - they talk a lot about this type of thing.

Also, I would be inclined to speak to your DR about this .. personally you need to way up the risks between Breast Cancer Or Osteoporosis with your DR, and there will be other factors added into the equation .. like lifestyle etc.,

Hope this helps

Toni xx

Hi Gretchen,

When I went on hormones earlier this month I asked the doc about the risk of breast cancer. He informed me that the risk for women without their ovaries is greatly reduced, that the risk is higher for women who are taking hormones with their ovaries. With a history of breast cancer though I would double check and remind them of your family history.

Best of luck,
Mary Ellen

Hi,

You don't say how old you are.

There are differences in risk based on WHAT you are taking. You might want to check out a book called It's My Ovaries, Stupid! by Dr. Elizabeth Vliet. It talks all about hormone replacement therapy and how women are having the living daylights scared out of them by misleading reports in the media. In my opinion if you are on the proper dose of BIOIDENTICAL estrogen, it isn't as risky.

I personally wouldn't go without estrogen, because not only do I not want to ruin a perfectly good relationship with hot flashes, insomnia, and no sex drive, but my grandmother is CRIPPLED with osteoporosis and I sure don't want that to be me!

But then again, I don't have a family history of breast cancer, either.