QuestionHello,
I would like to ask you for an advice. I have a family history of ovarian cancer (mother and maternal grandmother). I started using ortho-tri-cyclen when I was 22, later the doctor at PlannedParenthood switched me onto Loestrin(1.5/30), and then I was given a Depo shot. After being on the shot for 2 years I would like to switch to the Pill. I am 28 year old.
Which pill do you think is better for me considering my age and ovarian cancer history: Loestrin 1/20 or Mircette?
I've read that progestin in pills plays a protective role against ovarian cancer, so more progestin in Loestrin (1mg vs 0.15mg) is better. However, I've also read that Loestrin has high androgen index and contributes to irreversible hair loss. Mircette, on the other hand, has less progestin but overall delivers more estrogen in one month (21pills 20mcg EE plus 5 pills 10mcg EE). I am worried about estrogen effect on breast cancer, that's why I can't decide on which pill to use. How much estrogen is too much?
At this point I am completely confused. Please help me.
Sincerely,
Anna Sahar
AnswerUnfortunately, no one hundred percent effective method exists to prevent the development of ovarian cancer. A number of circumstances that may help prevent the disease have, however, been identified.
Pregnancy: For every pregnancy brought to term, experts estimate that the risk of ovarian cancer drops by ten percent.
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding, even for a relatively short period of time, appears to lower risk levels.
Oral Contraceptive Use: Women using oral contraceptives may cut their risk of ovarian cancer by as much as fifty percent. This benefit appears to extend for years after contraceptive use is discontinued.
Tubal Ligation: Tubal ligation is a surgical sterilization technique that ties off the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from leaving the ovaries. Women who have had their "tubes tied" appear to have a lower incidence of
ovarian malignancy.
Women who carry the genetic mutations BRCA1 and BRCA2 are at greater than normal risk of developing ovarian tumors. If these genes are present, a prophylactic oophorectomy, or ovary removal, may be recommended. Both ovaries are removed as a preventive measure but do not not jump to conclusion in here until 50 years old of age, and even though I do not think it is necessarely just close follow up and since there is a family history I think that these two markers might be positive in your case.
I do not know if one or the other pill might be suitable or not for you as many factors contribute on the pill indication, meaning that one of them or both or neither will be tolerated by your body, especially that you changed so many times.
but in general Loestrin will be a better choice.
in any case you need a to self examine your breast even if there is no breast cancer in the family, since you are taking pills there is always risks, and a mamography starting 30, at least once a year.
so the best answer will be to see with your gyn the best pill for you and your metabolism considering the family history
hope this answer your question
thanks
dan
