Breast

Periods, pregnancy, the pill and cancer risk

Several aspects of a woman’s reproductive life are linked to her risk of breast cancer. None of them on their own decides whether you will develop cancer, and they don’t change your screening schedule, but they are part of the picture.

First period and menopause

An earlier first period and a later menopause are associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. In general, a longer fertile period in life seems to be linked to a higher risk, although many other factors play a role.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Studies link a higher number of full-term pregnancies to a lower risk of breast cancer. The risk appears lower in women who had their first pregnancy in their twenties. Breastfeeding for more than a year in total also seems to be linked to a lower risk.

The pill

The combined birth control pill may reduce the risk of certain cancers, in particular ovarian and endometrial (uterine) cancer, and possibly colorectal cancer. Its effect on breast and cervical cancer risk is small and still being studied, so the overall picture is not yet settled. The pill is not recommended as a way to prevent cancer, and it does not replace screening. If you are choosing a contraceptive, talk it through with your physician in light of your personal and family history. Read more from UCLA Health.

This article gives general information and doesn’t replace advice from your physician. Want to know which screenings apply to you? Take the ScreenMe questionnaire.