BRCA2

bkruse

I was just informed today that I tested positive for BRCA2. I had breast cancer in '83 and 06. I have been advise to have my ovaries removed. I am concerned about side effects - physical and cosmetic after? Any experiences to share? What will happen to my body after?

laureniris

Hi bkruse,

I am also BRCA2 and had an oopherectomy last year.  I found the menopausal symptoms most severe PRIOR to my ooph., when I was on chemo and then, briefly, on tamoxophen.  After the ooph, I switched too AI meds, and am currently on femara.  My major side effect is pain in my feet when I stand too long or wear any kind of heel.  I never had this before, so I know it's directly related to the AI.

My muscle tone isn't as good as it was before the ooph, but I also don't exercise as aggressively or as often, especially since I am still having reconstruction surgeries (just had nips) that take me away from the gym

The psychological relief from having had this surgery is great.  In fact, hearing that my ovaries were ok (no cancer) was the largest relief I have had since this ordeal began.

I'm worried about my skin looking older, but the reality is that it still looks ok.  Good luck with whatever decision you make.

veggievet

Hi Bkruse,

So sorry that you have to join the BRCA club.  I'm an 11 year survivor (diagnosed at 33) and have a BRCA 2 mutation. I had my ovaries out at 35 (9 years ago).  You might also post your message on the message boards on FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (http://www.facingourrisk.org ), an organization devoted to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

In my case I did well with surgical menopause for about 3 years and then developed severe fatigue.  I ended up on very low dose estrogen (I know, taboo but it was a quality-of-life decision and the dose I'm on is less than my active ovaries were producing).  I have spoken to hundreds of women who have had surgical menopause and most do very well and don't have fatigue as I did.

I do empathize with your fears. Feel free to e-mail me at: sueanddan@att.net if you'd like to chat.

warm regards,

Sue