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[Lyns37]

My consultant and gp want me to start hrt for reasons you will already know.  I'm concerned because my mum had oestrogen receptive breast cancer that was discovered by accident. She didn't have a lump, but lots of small clusters. Had it got to lump stage it would have been too late. She was only in her 40s too so under the regular screening age. I still have not been screened and am fighting to be seen.  We also have a family history of heart disease. 
My question is, is there a hrt alternative that will help protect my heart and bones but without oestrogen? I'm not concerned about meno symptoms at the moment, just my long term health. 

Thanks
L

[Dancinggirl]

Lyns37  - If your GP and the consultant feel HRT is appropriate and necessary for you despite your mother's experience with BC and if you are young (under 45) then I would follow their advice.  EVen a few years of HRT can protect your heart and bones for the longer term.
Can you be tested to see if you have the BC gene?

Having had 3 women friends who have had BC  - non of whom had used HRT - I have to tell you that the treatment for BC has made enormous strides these days and even quite aggressive BC, as one of my friends had, can and does have a very good outcome.
If you have heart disease in your family then HRT will be particularly important to help prevent this.
You mother's BC may not have been genetic but merely random so you mustn't believe you will be at risk - you may well be more at risk of other problems without HRT.

A diet rich in Omega oils, calcium, Vitamin D, Magnesium and lots of weight baring exercise (jogging/power walking) will all help maintain the health of heart and bones but oestrogen is still terribly important if you are young.  Soya, RED Clover and other phytoestrogens, which are possible alternatives, are also supposed to increase the risk of BC and those people who have BC are told to avoid these things!!!!
I would ask to have a bone scan to see how your bone density is right now - I had this done in my mid 30s when I first became peri meno and my density was already borderline!!!.  I would also ask if you can have regular breast screening if you are not already getting this.

I'm afraid I can't remember what has been going on with you?  Have you had a hyster? If you have had a hyster then I believe the studies have shown that women who are hysterectomised and use oestrogen are actually less likely to get BC!!!   It's combined HRT that brings the slightly higher risks.

I can understand your worry but it's about weighing up the pros against any cons.  DG x