A new study is adding to the evidence that vaginal estrogen therapy is a safe option for people with a history of breast cancer.
The meta-analysis review of more than 5,000 studies found that women with a history of breast cancer who used local vaginal estrogen (tablets or creams) to treat genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) did not increase their risk of recurrence or breast cancer-related death.
Other recent studies have supported the use of vaginal estrogen for GSM in breast cancer survivors, however, many people are unaware that it’s an option even if you’ve had hormone-receptor positive breast cancer. This is because local vaginal estrogen only affects the vaginal area — not your entire body like hormone therapy.
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Vaginal estrogen won’t help with vasomotor symptoms — night sweats and hot flashes — or things like bone loss that happens because of declining estrogen levels during menopause, but it can restore vaginal tissue and help with symptoms of GSM.
We asked menopause and breast medicine physician Sabrina Sahni, M.D., NCMP, a member of HealthyWomen’s Women’s Health Advisory Council, for her thoughts on the recent study and vaginal estrogen therapy.
1. With this new study in mind, is it safe for women with a history of breast cancer to use vaginal estrogen?
This data is very reassuring and something we have certainly suspected for quite some time. It shows that low dose vaginal estrogen does not increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence, breast cancer mortality and overall mortality.
2. Why is it important for people to know about vaginal estrogen therapy?
Vaginal estrogen is truly a game changer for women with GSM. Symptoms like burning, dryness, pain with intercourse and even urinary symptoms are just some of the major symptoms that can affect women and have a profound impact on their overall quality of life and intimacy.
3. If you have a history of breast cancer, what should you do if you’re interested in using vaginal estrogen or have questions about it?
Start the conversation with both your oncologist and your gynecologist/women’s health provider. This study emphasizes that vaginal estrogen is not only an effective option but is considered safe in cancer survivors. A collaborative approach with your whole healthcare team will always ensure you’re getting appropriate care.