Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women today. Many people think it happens suddenly or only because of family history. But in reality, several life-related factors can influence the risk of breast cancer. One important group of factors is a woman’s menstrual and reproductive history.
This does not mean that having these factors will surely cause cancer. It simply means that they may increase or decrease the risk slightly over time.
Let us understand this in a simple way.
1. Age at First Period (Menarche)
When a girl gets her first period at a very young age (before 12 years), her body is exposed to female hormones like estrogen for a longer time. These hormones help in normal body growth, but long exposure may slightly increase breast cancer risk.
Girls who get their periods a little later have a slightly lower risk because their hormone exposure starts later.
2. Age at Menopause
Menopause is when monthly periods stop permanently. Women who reach menopause after the age of 55 are exposed to estrogen for many more years. This longer hormone exposure can increase the risk of breast cancer.
Women who have early menopause naturally have a slightly lower risk.
3. Number of Pregnancies
Pregnancy causes changes in breast cells that help them mature fully. Women who have one or more full-term pregnancies, especially at a younger age, usually have a lower risk of breast cancer.
On the other hand, women who have never been pregnant or had very late pregnancies may have a slightly higher risk. This does not mean pregnancy is a solution, but it is one of many natural factors.
4. Age at First Childbirth
Having the first child before the age of 30 is linked to a lower risk of breast cancer. During pregnancy, breast cells become more stable and less likely to develop harmful changes.
Women who have their first child after 30, or who do not have children, may have a slightly higher risk. This is common today due to work, health, or personal choices—and it is completely normal.
5. Breastfeeding History
Breastfeeding is beneficial not only for the baby but also for the mother. Women who breastfeed for a longer time have a lower risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding reduces estrogen levels and helps breast cells stay healthy.
Even breastfeeding for a few months can offer some protection.
6. Use of Hormonal Medicines
Some women use hormone-based medicines like birth control pills or hormone therapy after menopause. Long-term use of these medicines may slightly increase breast cancer risk, especially if used without medical advice.
This does not mean they should be avoided, but they should always be taken after consulting a doctor.
7. Irregular Periods and Health Conditions
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affect periods and hormone balance, may also influence breast cancer risk. Managing these conditions properly with medical guidance is important.
What Should Women Remember?
Menstrual and reproductive history is only one part of breast cancer risk. Many women with these risk factors never develop cancer, and many who develop cancer have no clear risk factors.
The most important steps are:
1. Regular breast self-checks
2. Timely medical check-ups
3. Healthy food and active lifestyle
4. Not ignoring any breast changes
Dr. Pragati Singhal
