Does HRT Cause Cancer?

posted in Guide to HRT/MHT on Dec 11, 2025

As women approach menopause, they experience several changes in their body. This is because estrogen levels significantly drop during this life stage, causing symptoms such as hot flashes, skin and hair changes, and mood swings

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one of the treatments women seek when they search for relief from menopause symptoms. However, concerns about its potential link to cancer have created hesitation for several women.

In this Tip, we will debunk the myth that HRT causes cancer and explain how the benefits of HRT far outweigh the risks.


What is HRT/MHT? 

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a broad term for treatments where hormones are administered to replace those that the body no longer produces. This therapy can address a range of conditions, but one of its most significant uses is in managing menopause symptoms through Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT).


MHT specifically targets the hormonal changes that occur during menopause, rebalancing estrogen and progesterone to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, skin and hair changes, and mood swings. These symptoms can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, making MHT a crucial intervention for many. By replenishing the body's estrogen and progesterone levels, MHT eases these distressing symptoms during this life stage.



The History of HRT

HRT has a long and controversial history. Initially introduced in the 1960s, it quickly became a popular treatment for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and, eventually, osteoporosis. 


The fear of HRT started in the early 2000s when studies like the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) raised concerns about the potential risks associated with HRT, particularly its link to breast cancer and heart disease. These findings led to a significant decline in its use and caused long-term apprehension about HRT.


However, more recent research saw numerous flaws in the WHI study and has provided a deeper understanding, showing that the benefits of HRT often outweigh the risks, especially for younger perimenopausal and menopausal women.


Today, HRT/MHT is regarded as a safe and effective treatment when appropriately prescribed and monitored by a doctor. It is increasingly recognized for its significant benefits, which include relief from menopausal symptoms and potential cardiovascular benefits when initiated at the right time. 


What are the cancer risks of HRT/MHT?

The connection between HRT and cancer, particularly breast cancer, has been a topic of concern and confusion. While some studies have indicated a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer with certain types of HRT, the risk varies based on the type of HRT used, the timing and duration of therapy, the dose, and the individual’s health history. 


It is important to mention that HRT/MHT may not be suitable for everyone. Specifically, The Estrogen Boost will not be prescribed to those who:



The absolute increase in risk is relatively small, especially when weighed against the quality-of-life improvements HRT/MHT can offer. By carefully selecting the appropriate type and dosage of hormones and closely monitoring patients, HRT/MHT prescribers can minimize risks while maximizing benefits.


How Musely addresses these risks

At Musely, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our patients over anything. Our board-certified OB-GYN and dermatologists perform a careful review of each patient’s medical questionnaire that includes medical history, current symptoms, and other essential information before writing a prescription, before writing a prescription. This extensive screening process plays a huge role in how our doctors determine whether an individual is a good fit for the treatment.  If there is even the slightest risk, our doctors will not prescribe the patient The Estrogen Boost. 


Throughout your treatment, your assigned doctor will provide close guidance through eNurse Check-Ins and direct message support. Rest assured, you will have the right guidance and support throughout your journey.


The benefits of HRT/MHT to perimenopausal and menopausal women


The benefits of HRT/MHT are well-documented and can be life-changing for many women, significantly improving their quality of life.


If you are perimenopausal or menopausal, The Estrogen Boost is a great MHT treatment to get started! It is an estrogen-based topical cream intended to increase systemic estrogen levels to relieve distressing symptoms. 


Another great thing about The Estrogen Boost is that you can pair it with other Musely FaceRx treatments like The Aging Repair Cream, The Spot Cream, The Hair Topical Solution, and more! 


Click here to learn more about The Estrogen Boost


Resources


"Does Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Increase the Risk of Cancer?" Cancer Research UK, 22 Mar. 2023, www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/hormones-and-cancer/does-hormone-replacement-therapy-increase-cancer-risk. Accessed 19 Jul. 2024.


"Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Cancer Risk." American Cancer Society, 15 Feb. 2015, www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/medical-treatments/menopausal-hormone-replacement-therapy-and-cancer-risk.html. Accessed 19 Jul. 2024. 


"Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Cancer." NIH National Cancer Institute, 25 Sept. 2023, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/mht-fact-sheet. Accessed 19 Jul. 2024. 


"What Is Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and Is It Safe?" Australasian Menopause Society, Dec. 2019, www.menopause.org.au/health-info/fact-sheets/what-is-menopausal-hormone-therapy-mht-and-is-it-safe. Accessed 19 Jul. 2024. 


Rossouw, Jacques E et al. “Risks and benefits of estrogen plus progestin in healthy postmenopausal women: principal results From the Women's Health Initiative randomized controlled trial.” JAMA vol. 288,3 (2002): 321-33. doi:10.1001/jama.288.3.321 


"HRT: The History." Women's Health Concern, Nov. 2023, www.womens-health-concern.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/10-WHC-FACTSHEET-HRT-The-history-NOV22-A.pdf. Accessed 19 Jul. 2024.