Hormones, the pill, and menopause

Hormones play a role in breast cancer risk because many tumors are hormone sensitive. But that does not mean hormones are dangerous across the board.

Hormonal birth control like the pill can raise your risk slightly and temporarily. The effect is small and fades after you stop taking it, and for most women the benefits outweigh it. Long term combined hormone therapy for menopause symptoms can also raise your risk.

Your natural hormone history matters too. A very early first period, a late menopause, or a first birth after age 30 are considered mild risk factors. If breast cancer runs in your family, talk through hormone decisions one on one with your doctor.