CommunitiesBreast CancerShould I skip hormone therapy after breast cancer for natural alternatives?

Should I skip hormone therapy after breast cancer for natural alternatives?

JL

Community Member

2 days ago

I just had a double mastectomy on 5/11/2026. I had invasive ductal carcinoma with ER+ 100% PR+ 98% HER2 negative. My tumor was 1.4 cm at 2 o’clock in the right upper quadrant and then the MRI showed another cancer spot at 9 o’clock near the armpit . We opted for the double mastectomy just to remove it and be done with it. I got an infection on the cancer side after and we since removed the expander for now to clear it up and then will have it re implanted in a couple weeks once the infection clears. My pathology came back clear, margins were negative and nothing in the lymph nodes. I have my first appointment with my medical oncologist next week and I know they are going to tell me I have to go on the hormone regulating pills that everyone has horrible side effects from. What do I do here? I’ve been reading plenty of functional medics books- how to starve cancer- Jane McLelland; The Smart Women’s Guide to Breast Cancer- Jenn Simmons MD; Chris Beat Cancer- Chris Wark; Breasts: The Owners Manual- Dr. Kristi Funk… plus, Zonia.com the cancer series from that wonderful site of health knowledge! I do not believe these drugs will help me and I don’t want all the side effects. Is functional medicine the way to go here? I believe I can live a happy, healthy, active, joyful life that will fight the cancer coming back better than some chemical drugs that kills my insides. Has anyone else skipped these doctor orders on toxic treatments. What has the outcome been? I believe there is another way if you can commit to a diet and lifestyle that will help. Does anyone know of any foods/ supplements that can act like/replace the drugs like tamoxifen and the others. Thoughts ?? Thank you! I’m very new to the after cancer journey and just had my right boob taken yesterday!

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2 comments
Comment
CA

Community Member

2 days ago

This is such a significant decision that deserves careful consideration with your medical team. Many people in this community have wrestled with similar concerns about hormone therapy, weighing the potential benefits against side effects and exploring various approaches to support their health. It's encouraging to hear about your commitment to research and taking an active role in your care - these conversations with your oncologist will be valuable for understanding all your options and making the choice that feels right for your specific situation.

MO

Community Member

2 days ago

Hi Jenny, I was diagnosed January 2025. Cancer was found in my left breast about 1 cm big. I opted for double mastectomy because I was afraid of cancer coming back and I didn’t want to go through the side effects of chemo and radiation. I had surgery March 03, expanders put in place, I developed my first infection on the right side (side wheee cancer was not located). Infection went away, I developed another infection a few months later it went away. Infection came back for a 3rd time, implant was removed to allow healing. Implant was put back in January 2026, I have had no issues since then 🙏. I started Tamoxiflen June 2025, I have had side effects since being on this medication. I see my oncologist every 3 months, I have routine lab work done and genetic testing done every 3 months as well. Since taking Tamoxiflen, I have had severe brain fog, my cognitive function is terrible. I have experienced severe headaches. Tylenol, Ibuprofen and excedrin does not work. I have hot flashes as well and sever leg cramps at night. Fatigued is daily, when I told my doctor about the side effects her response was “this is just a recommendation to take tamoxifen, if it’s affecting your quality of life you can stop taking it” everyone is different with medication, but the choice is ultimately yours to decide what is best for your body. I take tumeric daily and vitamin d daily . My husband has done a lot of research about herbal medicine and foods to avoid and to eat . I would do that you’ll be surprised what you discover. I hope this helps .

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