Birth Control Pills and Breast Cancer Risk
Hello, I'm 27 and I've been diagnosed with both the BRCA2 and PALB2 gene that puts me at increased risk, and has made me worried to increase further risk by taking contraceptive pills.
Has anyone else avoided birth control pills due to breast cancer risk, or is it negligible?
This is my first post, sorry if I missed any rules.
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@janeapple I hope you’re doing and feeling well. I’d like to share that after my initial diagnosis, both my oncologist and ob gyn opposed the use of hormone-base contraception. They were agreeable with my use of non-hormone IUD. I feel it would be best to have a conversation with both specialist before deciding.
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That's very insightful, thank you vajra13
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I’m sorry you’re dealing with this—it’s completely understandable to have concerns about contraception when you’ve been told you have BRCA2 and PALB2 variants. I think it would be best to discuss the risks and benefits with a breast specialist or genetic counselor, since the right choice can depend on your individual history and circumstances.
There are several non-pill contraceptive options, so you may have alternatives if the potential risk of hormonal contraception is worrying you. I hope you’re able to get clear, personalized guidance and find an option you feel comfortable with.
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@janeapple - Please definitely talk about the breast cancer risk from the Pill with your ob/gyn - it may be helpful to consult with an gyn oncologist, given your BRCA and PALB2 gene mutations. I had taken birth control pills for 15 years when I was younger, and had mistakenly assumed that since my prescription had been for "low-estrogen" contraception, that those would be safer. But then I ended up getting breast cancer years later. After I had been DX'd, I also found out that I had the PALB2 gene mutation as well. If I'd known back then about the heightened breast cancer risk, I would never have taken oral contraceptives. My older sister, who also has the same PALB2 gene mutation and never taken oral contraceptives, has not had breast cancer.
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Hi @janeapple, we're so sorry for the worries that bring you here, but it's good you're being proactive about your breast health and lowering your breast cancer risk.
Here's some information that you might find helpful:
Does hormonal birth control increase the risk of breast cancer?
We hope this helps!
—The Mods
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