Breast cancer and contraception

Users of combined hormonal contraception have a very small increase in the risk of breast cancer, equating to around 1.3 additional cancers per 10 000 users per year (0.2 additional cancers per 10 000 users in those younger than 35 years).

All hormonal contraception (except for oral emergency contraception) is contraindicated (UKMEC 4) in individuals with current breast cancer. Expert clinical judgment or referral is advised (UKMEC 3) for individuals with past breast cancer who are considering any form of hormonal contraception (other than oral emergency contraception).

A family history of breast cancer is not a contraindication to the use of hormonal contraception; however, expert clinical judgment or referral is advised (UKMEC 3) before use of combined hormonal contraception in those with a known gene mutation that increases the risk of breast cancer¹.

¹ For more information on mutation carriers and familial breast cancer risk, see the eviQ website.Return