It is unclear whether taking oral (pill) or transdermal (skin patch) estrogen alone increases breast density or breast cancer risk.
Vaginal estrogen:
- Has not been shown to increase breast cancer risk in women who have not had breast cancer.
- One study found an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence in breast cancer survivors who have taken an aromatase inhibitor.
- Does not increase the risk of breast cancer death in breast cancer survivors.
- There are not many studies on vaginal estrogen and breast density.
Learn More:
- 5 Facts Every Woman Should Know
- Video Series: Let’s Talk About Dense Breasts
- Patient Risk Checklist (print)
- Patient Questions and Answers