Ovarian Cancer Risk and HRT
Why Ovarian Cancer Is So Challenging
Unlike cervical and breast cancer, there is currently no effective routine screening test for ovarian cancer. This makes early detection difficult. Many women are diagnosed at later stages of the disease due to the vague nature of ovarian cancer symptoms. Bloating and abdominal distention, pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, and feeling full quickly (early satiety) are all potential warning signs — but they’re also common complaints that can easily be overlooked or attributed to less serious issues.
Where Ovarian Cancer May Begin
A growing body of research suggests that many cases of ovarian cancer actually originate in the fallopian tubes, not the ovaries themselves. In fact, removing the fallopian tubes for permanent birth control (a procedure known as salpingectomy) has been shown to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
The Protective Role of Birth Control Pills
Another important finding: oral contraceptives have been linked to a significantly reduced risk of ovarian cancer. Studies suggest that women who use birth control pills may reduce their risk by as much as 40–80%. This protective benefit appears to increase with the length of time the pill is used.
Hormone Therapy and Ovarian Cancer Risk
For women using hormone therapy during or after menopause, the type of hormone matters. Evidence suggests that the use of 17β-estradiol in combination with micronized progesterone does not appear to significantly increase the risk of ovarian cancer, especially when compared to some synthetic hormone combinations.
