The Link Between PCOD and Increased Risk of Breast Cancer

September 30, 2025

Women suffer from various problems that affect their reproductive health. PCOD is a condition that is due to the imbalance of reproductive hormones, which impacts ovarian function. It also alters the menstrual cycle of women, causing various health issues.  It usually affects women of childbearing age. There is a link between PCOD and other health conditions, including diabetes, obesity and fertility problems. There is research evidence of an increase in the risk of breast cancer for women with PCOD. It is possible to reduce the risk of breast cancer with simple lifestyle changes and medications. Continue reading to know the relation between PCOD and breast cancer risk.

PCOD: An Overview

Polycystic ovarian disorder is a health disorder that afflicts women, and it is caused by the imbalance of reproductive hormones. It is a common endocrine disorder that affects women in their reproductive age. It negatively impacts ovarian function, preventing the production and release of eggs. PCOD may result in the formation of cysts when ovulation does not occur. These cysts produce androgen, a hormone that disrupts the menstrual cycle. This condition is usually identified in the childbearing age when they face trouble in getting pregnant.

Causes of PCOD

The cause of PCOD is not specific. It can be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as

  • Family history
  • Lesser levels of FSH
  • Unhealthy Diet
  • Obesity
  • Intake of supplements
  • Hormone medications

Symptoms of PCOD

Some of the evident symptoms of PCOD are listed below

  • Light periods
  • Heavy periods
  • Missed periods
  • Weight gain
  • Excess hair growth in the chest, back and stomach
  • Infertility
  • Acne
  • Oily skin
  • Thinning of hair
  • Baldness
  • Cystic ovaries

What Happens to Your Body Due to PCOD?

PCOD negatively impacts your body and causes various health problems. The following are the effects of PCOD:

Menstrual Irregularities: PCOD causes various menstrual problems, including light periods, missed periods and heavy periods.  

Mood Swings: PCOD can result in mood fluctuations, depression and anxiety

Fertility Problems: PCOD affects ovarian function, causing fertility issues.

Excessive Hair Growth: PCOD induces hair growth on the face, chest and abdomen.

Hair Loss: You may face severe hair loss due to PCOD.

Sleep Issues: PCOD causes sleep apnea and other sleep issues.

Risks of PCOD

Cancer: There is a high risk of cancer for women with PCOD.

Diabetes: PCOD is likely to develop type 2 diabetes in women.

Cardiovascular Diseases: You’re at high risk of heart problems when you have PCOD.

High Blood Pressure: You may suffer from hypertension with PCOD.

Mental Health Issues: Women suffering from PCOD are at high risk of depression and anxiety.

How Does PCOD Increase the Risk Of Breast Cancer?

Studies indicate a potential link between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and an increased risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. This type of breast cancer is stimulated by estrogen, and research suggests women with PCOS may have a higher likelihood of developing it.

PCOD elevates your hormone levels, causing higher androgen levels, which in turn convert into estrogen. Prolonged exposure to estrogen can induce the growth of cancer cells in the breast. PCOD elevates the anti-Müllerian hormone ( AMH) levels, increasing the risk of breast cancer. Studies have also focused on PCOD hormonal therapy and breast cancer.

The risk of cancer for women with PCOD usually doubles after menopause. There is also an increased risk of other cancers, including ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer, for women with PCOD.

Treating PCOD

The treatment plan for PCOD varies from person to person.

Lifestyle Changes

Simple lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet and exercising can help cure PCOD.

Estrogen dominance and PCOD are strongly associated, which can be treated by following a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Medications

Birth control pills are prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Clomifene drug is recommended to induce ovulation.

You can take metformin to lower insulin and androgen levels.

Surgery

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is done to destroy the tissues in the ovaries that produce androgens.

ART procedures, including IUI, IVF, etc., to help women with PCOD conceive.

Ways to Minimize the Risk of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a frequent type of cancer common in women in developing countries. It is usually not possible to prevent PCOD, but you can reduce the risk of cancer, which is caused by it. If you are suffering from PCOD and cancer prevention is one of your top priorities, here’s what you can do:

Consult Your Doctor to Treat PCOD: Your doctor may devise the right treatment plan based on your medical condition. You can opt for surgery or medications based on your doctor’s advice.

Maintain Ideal Weight: Reducing weight can help to manage PCOD symptoms.

Exercise Regularly: Exercising can make you fit and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Reduce Fat Intake: It is said that reducing fat intake can reduce the effects of PCOD.

Go for Regular Cancer Screenings: As the risk of breast cancer and other types of cancer is high, women with PCOD must go for frequent cancer screenings, including breast cancer screening.

Manage Stress: To reduce the risk of breast cancer, engage in stress-relieving activities like painting, cooking, gardening and meditation.

Book an online appointment withDr. Shelly Arora for Pregnancy & Gynecology related issues.

Other Factors that Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer

Obesity: Overweight is a major risk factor for breast cancer in women.

Age: There is a high risk of breast cancer for women in menopausal age.

Be Proactive and Monitor Your Overall Health

Polycystic ovarian disease is a common reproductive disease for women of childbearing age. Taking a proactive approach to your health is essential, especially for women with PCOD. This can help maintain reproductive health and prevent the risk of breast cancer. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures the right treatment plan is in place to manage PCOD and prevent complications. Regular breast cancer screenings and adopting preventive measures are essential for women with PCOD to minimise their risk. By staying informed, making healthy lifestyle choices and prioritising regular check-ups, women with PCOD can take control of their health and well-being.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do women with PCOD need more frequent breast cancer screenings?

Yes, there is a high risk of breast cancer for women with PCOD, so they may need more breast cancer screenings than others.

How does hormonal imbalance in PCOD contribute to breast cancer risk?

High levels of estrogen and progesterone stimulate the growth of breast cells, activating hormone receptors on cancer cells and triggering tumour development.

Are women with PCOD more likely to develop estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer?

There is research evidence that women with PCOD are likely to develop estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. PCOD increases estrogen levels, thereby increasing the risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

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