Estrogen recovery therapy (ERT) has been used widely for the last few decades to help alleviate symptoms of menopause. However, the use of ERT has raised concerns about increased risks of ovarian cancer.

The purpose of this comprehensive review is to examine the relationship between ERT and ovarian cancer risk.

Estrogen Recovery Therapy (ERT) Explained

ERT is a form of hormone therapy that helps to supplement the levels of estrogen in a woman’s body, which can help reduce the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.

ERT can be administered in different forms, such as pills, patches, creams, and gels.

Risks and Benefits of ERT

The benefits of ERT are well documented in several studies. It helps alleviate symptoms of menopause, reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, and may help to prevent colon cancer. However, there are some risks associated with ERT.

Long-term use of ERT can increase the risk of breast cancer, stroke, and blood clots.

ERT and Ovarian Cancer Risk

The link between ERT and ovarian cancer risk has been researched for a long time. Studies have shown that women who use ERT for more than five years have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.

The risk increases with the duration of ERT use, and it returns to normal levels ten years after stopping the therapy.

Mechanism: ERT and Ovarian Cancer

ERT can increase the risk of ovarian cancer by stimulating the growth of cancerous cells that are already present in the ovary. Estrogen levels decrease after menopause, and this reduction in estrogen levels helps to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

However, ERT can negate this effect as it increases the levels of estrogen in the body.

Types: ERT and Ovarian Cancer

There are two types of ovarian cancer: epithelial and non-epithelial. Epithelial tumors are the most common, accounting for nearly 90% of all ovarian cancers.

ERT may increase the risk of developing epithelial ovarian cancer but has no effect on non-epithelial tumors.

Prevention: ERT and Ovarian Cancer

Many studies have been conducted to prevent ovarian cancer in women who use ERT. The most effective way to prevent ovarian cancer while using ERT is to limit the duration of ERT use.

Furthermore, women who have had a hysterectomy should only use estrogen therapy.

Alternatives: ERT and Ovarian Cancer

There are several alternatives to ERT that can help alleviate menopause symptoms. These include non-hormonal therapies such as supplements, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes.

Some of the most common non-hormonal therapies include black cohosh, red clover, and soy products.

Conclusions

ERT is a commonly used therapy to help alleviate symptoms of menopause. However, long-term use of ERT has been associated with increased risks of breast cancer, stroke, blood clots, and ovarian cancer.

Therefore, it is important to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of ERT before starting therapy. Women who use ERT should limit its duration and use the lowest effective dose.