The cancer risk was way over-hyped from the misrepresented results of the WHI study. The relative risk that was widely reported was a 26% increase. That sounded like a huge increase when in actuality, the absolute risk (which was not widely reported) was about 8 additional cases of breast cancer per 10,000 women. Risk of breast cancer went from 2.33% for those women not on hormones to 2.94% for those taking HRT. There was no difference in mortality rates. In addition, the study was conducted using oral estrogen derived from horse urine along with synthetic progestin. Risks are further reduced with the use of transdermal estradiol and bioidentical progesterone. If you have a history of breast cancer and/or CVD, perhaps there is some concern. I checked out my cardiac risks by getting a CT calcium score and my score was zero, meaning no calcifications in my arteries.

As far as a lifetime on it, who knows what the risk might be? There are no long term studies to determine safety. But my feeling is that I am willing to take the small risks for improved quality of life and maintaining my bones in a more natural way than any of the other meds. The other pharmaceutical options also pose risks so it's a tough choice we have to make. I would rather not take bisphosphonates but after my past experience of losing so much density during my natural trial (and error), I do not close doors. If it ends up that I need it, I would certainly consider it. My biggest regret is not going on hormones sooner as I would have preserved my bone rather than lost so much of it.

If you decide that you want to pursue it, you can use Alloy Health, an online MD based practice that provides a review of your history and prescriptions at a nominal cost (if you live in the US). Or you can have your gyn prescribe for menopausal symptoms vs for osteoporosis.