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Women's sexual health
The Pill and breast cancer
Originally Published: September 30, 1994 ~ Last Updated / Reviewed on: July 22, 1998
 
Dear Alice,

I was hoping you could answer a question for me about birth control pills. There is a history of breast cancer in my family (my mother). Is it true that because of this, it is unsafe for me to use birth control pills? A few friends have recently had condoms break during sex, and I am looking for a type of "backup" contraception system.

Thanks,
Concerned

 

Dear Concerned,

At this time, there is no evidence that pill use increases the risk of breast cancer if a woman has a female relative with breast cancer. However, there is some concern that since estrogen can promote some breast cancers, a woman with a strong family history of breast cancer may be at higher risk and wish to choose another method. But, since the pill may protect against breast cancer by stabilizing hormones within the breast tissue, the pill is recommended for daughters of mothers with breast or ovarian cancer as long as they are carefully monitored and have regular breast exams as advised by their health care providers. If you smoke, definitely choose another method of contraception because of the increased chance of stroke or other cardiovascular problems.

With one in nine women getting breast cancer and many having no risk factors, every woman needs to do the following:

  • Carefully examine your breasts each month for unusual lumps (breast self-exam -- for details, read Breast Lump).
  • Have an annual breast exam by a health care provider.
  • Cut down on fatty foods (i.e., soft cheese, whole milk, red meat, sour cream, etc.) and eat more vegetables and fruits.
  • Talk with your health care provider about current drug research findings that may apply to you.

Make an appointment with a provider to discuss your other contraceptive options. If you are at Columbia, call Primary Care Medical Services at x4-2284.

Alice

P.S.:

Breast Cancer and Exercise

F.Y.I.: Science News reported the results of a study from the University of Southern California School of Medicine in Los Angeles regarding reducing a woman's risk of breast cancer. It states that women who exercise three or more hours a week in the decade following menarche -- the onset of their menstrual cycle -- can lower their risk of breast cancer 30 percent by age forty, compared to their more sedentary peers. Continuing that moderately active lifestyle until at least age forty can cut your risk by almost 60 percent. This is one of the only risk factors for breast cancer that women themselves can have control over. So get out there and get moving.

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