Intrauterine devices (IUDs) have become a go-to choice for contraception, with around 17 per cent of women around the globe choosing this method for its convenience and effectiveness, according to the Danish Cancer Society Research Center. 

 

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At the heart of this discussion is the levonorgestrel-releasing IUD, a small but powerful device inserted into the uterus. It works cleverly, releasing levonorgestrel—a hormone designed to prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus to block sperm and thinning the uterine lining to stop a fertilised egg from implanting. 

2024 research from the Danish Cancer Society Research Center sheds light on a concerning aspect of one specific type of IUD. The study highlights that levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (LNG-IUSs), a popular hormonal IUD, may be associated with a higher risk of breast cancer in women aged 15 to 49 when compared to those who avoid hormonal IUDs. 

 

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Hormonal Contraception and Breast Cancer: What We Know So Far

The connection between hormonal contraception and breast cancer is a topic that has been under the microscope for quite some time. 2014 research in the paper Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention has consistently shown that women using birth control pills could face a 20 per cent to 60 per cent higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who steer clear of hormonal methods.

A landmark study from 2010, involving over 100,000 nurses, pinpointed levonorgestrel—a specific type of progestin—as a significant contributor to this increased risk. But here’s the silver lining: once women discontinue the pills, the heightened risk tends to taper off.  

 

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How Do IUDs Boost the Risk of Breast Cancer?

Understanding the potential connection between hormonal IUDs and breast cancer is more important than ever. This is a critical conversation for anyone making choices about their reproductive health, especially given the concerns surrounding progestins—the key component in these IUDs— and their possible link to breast cancer risk. This apprehension is supported by research indicating that hormone replacement therapies during menopause, which also utilise progestins, can increase this risk. 

The focus of recent studies has been on the higher-dose versions of these IUDs, which are becoming increasingly popular in today’s reproductive health landscape.

When it comes to high-dose hormonal IUDs, there’s an important fact to consider: for every 714 women who use these devices for five years, one may face the risk of developing breast cancer, according to a 2024 report by the paper Breast Cancer. While this risk is relatively low, it's crucial to remember that many women opting for hormonal IUDs are in good health and are using them primarily for birth control, which can make the potential for serious side effects quite concerning. 

 

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However, it's not just about contraception for everyone. For many women, hormonal IUDs provide much-needed relief from menstrual pain and other gynecological issues, transforming their experience of health and well-being. In these cases, the advantages of choosing a hormonal IUD might outweigh the risks. 

This highlights the vital importance of personalised decision-making in reproductive health, ensuring that each woman can make the best choice for her situation.

Hormonal IUDs are a popular choice for birth control, and for good reason—they're effective and convenient. However, it’s essential to be aware of their potential risks, like a small increase in breast cancer risk. This highlights the importance of making informed choices, particularly for healthy women who use them primarily for contraception. But for those dealing with severe menstrual pain or other related conditions, the advantages might well outweigh the risks. It is imperative to reach out to a gynaecologist to find the best solution tailored to individual needs and health objectives. 

Book a consultation with a gynaecologist at UR.Life

 

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