Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after treatment for ovarian cancer
HRT containing oestrogen is the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. HRT is an effective treatment for hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness and may improve sleep, muscle aches and quality of life for some women.
If treatment for ovarian cancer involves removing the uterus and the ovaries, HRT containing oestrogen only can be used.
Relatively little is known about the risks of cancer progressing or returning in women who use HRT after ovarian cancer. Some rare forms of ovarian cancer are oestrogen sensitive, and in these cases it might be better to avoid HRT.
It’s important for women to discuss the risks and benefits of HRT on an individual basis with their oncologist and, if possible, a menopause specialist.
HRT following risk-reducing surgery to remove the ovaries
Women who are known to be at increased risk of ovarian cancer may choose to have both ovaries removed in order to reduce this risk. Removal of the ovaries will also reduce the risk of breast cancer in those at increased risk. Risk-reducing surgery is usually offered to women who carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.
Removal of both ovaries may lead to sudden and sometimes severe menopausal symptoms. Also, young women who lose both their ovaries are at increased risk of osteoporosis and may be at increased risk of heart disease.
More information
- The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has developed a decision aid for women considering taking HRT. The guide was developed for women who have not had ovarian cancer but it may be of interest to all women who are considering taking HRT.
- The Hereditary Cancer Clinic and the Centre for Genetics Education have developed an Information Booklet and Decision Aid for women who are at high or potentially high risk of developing ovarian cancer and would like to know more about reducing their risk. To order a copy of the resource, call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.