Yes. An increase in breast density is often seen in patients taking combined estrogen and progesterone hormone supplements (also called hormone replacement therapy, or HRT). This includes women and transgender patients using oral low-dose estrogen, vaginal estrogen, or transdermal estrogen treatment.
The increase in breast density often begins within a few months of starting hormone supplements. Hormones stimulate the growth of both normal and abnormal breast tissue. An increase in normal breast tissue increases breast density. Cancers that have estrogen receptors will also develop or grow as a result of hormone supplements. If you stop taking hormone supplements, your breast density and cancer risk decrease within months.
Learn More:
- 5 Facts Every Woman Should Know
- Video Series: Let’s Talk About Dense Breasts
- Patient Risk Checklist (print)
- Patient Questions and Answers