DCIS and HRT

Hi Charlie2024
I have the same issue as you and I've just today discussed this with my doctor. She has put me on an antidepressant drug called Effexor (Venlafaxine) as an off-label prescription for menopause. She's started me on a very low milligram dosage to see if I have any side effects or if it's going to work. If you Google Effexor for menopause you will find some information. I'm about to start it so fingers crossed that it does provide some relief (especially from the hot flushes at night - I'm longing for a proper sleep). May be something to chat with your GP about. 

Hi @SlimTee. I’m still on the same regime as 6 months ago.  I continue use a vaginal oestrogen which helps. I was post menopausal at this diagnosis and wasn’t on any other HRT at the time. I’ve discussed with my GP my concerns about now being oestrogen deficient and he regularly checks things for me and I try to do what I can exercise and diet wise.  The cancer may return which I why I ultimately decided on a double mastectomy. I wasn’t going to get caught a third time! 

Hi @PrisMay1
I've just been diagnosed with Grade 2 IDC  E & P +ve & Her -ve.  I'm currently on HRT & been recommended to cease all including my Ovestin. 

I'm devastated about the cancer diagnosis and it terrifies me to think that I'm exposing myself to cardiovascular disease, dementia, alzheimer's, muscular skeletal & the myriad of other conditions by stopping HRT to manage the recurrence of hormone receptive positive cancers.

I thought I'd check in & hope this finds all going well for you & grateful for any updates on your journey please. T

There’s a lot of talk about allowing women with breast cancer to continue HRT but would depend on your circumstance. I’ve continued my vaginal oestrogen and my Dr is fine with it as it’s low dose. Gather your info from trusted sources and don’t be afraid to ask your medical team a lot of questions. 

Welcome @Charlie2024.   A quick answer to your query as I am heading out.  I was given the 'natural'
 pills, none of which worked.  I made the effort to overcome a needle fear and went to acupuncture - fantastic, worked a treat.  Hope that helps.  Good luck.  💖

Sorry to see you here, @Charlie2024 ... Wishing you well with your appointments & treatment.   It is a very challenging period - so make sure you take a trusted friend/relative with you, as an extra set of ears, as it is easy to miss bits, as you contemplate the previous statement. xx  Also consider recording your appointments so you can go back afterwards and listen again. 

Jump onto this thread to read up on information re the forum & what to take to hospital etc .....  
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/23477/a-big-welcome-to-all-our-new-members#latest

I was already thru menopause when diagnosed, so can't really help re the HRT question (tho I believe it is no longer the 'bogeyman' that they touted it as 10+ years ago!!) ....

I was on HRT 25 years ago (which included testosterone) and my mammogram had a 'recall' a couple of times, then I was sent to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for more thorough checks, as the testosterone component of the cream had changed the composition of my breasts & which had produced 'lumps' that showed on the mammogram!  I stopped taking it then & there & the composition returned to normal, until 6 years ago when I had my BC diagnosis.

But if you go to this link, it will take you to other posts where HRT is discussed.
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/search?domain=all_content&query=HRT&sort=-dateInserted&scope=site&source=community

You can use this thread to document your appointments & treatment - after your active treatment has finished, it will be a bit like a 'diary' xx

Whack up ANY question that comes to your mind, and we'll do our best to answer them, as we've 'been there, done that'.

If you feel sad or concerned at all, give our helpline a bell on 1800 500 258 (Mon-Fri) to have a chat.

take care & all the best for your ongoing treatment