The Truth About Estrogen Dominance

The Truth About Estrogen Estrogen Dominance

Decades of research show that high estrogen levels—when not properly balanced—can increase breast cancer risk. Women with breast cancer often have higher estrogen levels than those without, and survivors with elevated estrogen face a higher chance of recurrence.

Why? Because one of estrogen’s main roles is to stimulate cell growth. While this is a normal and necessary function, unchecked growth at the cellular level can increase the risk of cancer.

The Three Estrogens: Estrone, Estradiol, and Estriol

Not all estrogens act the same way. Two in particular—estrone and estradiol—promote the activity of the BCL2 gene, which encourages cell growth in hormone-sensitive tissues like the breast and uterus. If left unopposed, this constant growth can turn problematic.

Normally, your body balances BCL2 with another gene, P53, which signals for damaged cells to die (a process called apoptosis). Progesterone supports P53 activity, which is why it’s so critical in keeping estrogen-driven growth in check. Without enough progesterone, estrogen dominance occurs—and the balance tips toward risk.

Why Estrogen Metabolism Matters

It’s not just the amount of estrogen that matters, but how your body processes it.

• “Bad” pathway: 16-hydroxyestrone (linked to cancer growth)

• “Good” pathway: 2-hydroxyestrone and 2-hydroxyestradiol (protective)

Every woman metabolizes estrogen differently, and this can be measured with a simple urine test (Estronex). Studies show women who metabolize more estrogen down the “good” pathway have a lower breast cancer risk.

How BHRT Can Help

At Radiate Wellness, we’ve worked with thousands of women using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). By restoring balance with bioidentical progesterone, we help counter estrogen dominance.

When estrogen is balanced, your breast and uterine cells are no longer overstimulated, reducing a major factor that drives cancer risk. Over two decades of prescribing BHRT, only a handful of our patients have developed breast cancer—evidence of how powerful restoring hormonal balance can be.

✅ The takeaway: It’s not about eliminating estrogen—it’s about balancing it. Supporting your body with the right hormones can help protect long-term health and reduce your breast cancer risk.