Reassuring Research on IVF and Breast Cancer Risk

December is the month our oldest son was born, thanks to IVF after 2+ years of trying. 

During IVF you have to take lots of hormones including estrogen, which is sometimes present in breast cancer cells too. 

Ever since my breast cancer diagnosis in 2023, I’ve wondered if going through 2 cycles of IVF caused me to develop cancer. 

Relief for Women Like Me Who Have Done IVF

But when I saw breastcancer.org’s article about data from dozens of studies with over 625,000 women, over 10+ years, about the impact of IVF on breast cancer I was so relieved.

Studies showed that IVF is safe and does NOT increase the risk of breast cancer.

Prolonged high estrogen levels can increase your risk, but IVF only raises hormone levels for a few weeks or months. 

Whether you are planning for a family as a breast cancer survivor or have no history of cancer, you don’t have to worry about IVF raising your risk. 

If you’re currently being treated for breast cancer, or are at high risk of breast cancer recurrence, you should talk with doctors about how to approach your situation. Here are a few questions that you might want to ask your oncologist: 

• Is pregnancy safe for me? What about fertility drugs?

• Should I get a mammogram before IVF?

• Are there any medicines you recommend I take during IVF to reduce my risk of breast cancer?

These kinds of questions and conversations will help you advocate for your health, and your family. 💕

Source: breastcancer.org

#factfriday