In the past, because early studies had shown no harm, doctors have offered hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after breast cancer treatment to women suffering from severe menstrual symptoms. However, in early 2004, a well-designed study (the HABITS study) was stopped early and the results published, because it found that breast cancer survivors taking HRT were much more likely to develop a new or recurrent breast cancer than were women who were not taking the hormones. For this reason, most doctors now feel that women previously treated for breast cancer should not take HRT.
Women should consider having a discussion with their doctors about alternatives to HRT pills to help with specific menopausal symptoms. Although the subject of phytoestrogens (estrogen-like substances from certain plant sources such as soy products) is still a hotly debated in the medical community, many healthcare professionals believe that phytoestrogens are an effective and sfe alternative for managing menopausal symptoms.
One way to approach the problem is to look at the menopausal symptoms that are making you uncomfortable — hot flashes, night sweats, decreased libido, and/or weight gain. There are some wonderfully effective nonhormonal treatments available. Herbs and dietary changes can go a long way to reducing these symptoms without tinkering with your body’s hormonal balance.
Find an integrative healthcare professional to help you and your oncologist explore these nonhormonal approaches. Integrative medicine uses both traditional and alternative treatments to heal the body.
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