Bilateral oophorectomy

westiemom

Hi everyone.

3 weeks post bi-lateral mastectomy with immediate nipple sparring reconstruction. Last week I had the IV port implanted - still have pain from that. I start chemo next week for 12 weeks. After chemo it has been recommended I have a bilateral oophorectomy but I'm not to keen on tamoxifen or choice inhibitors. I'm peri/pre-menopausal also BRAC positive for both breast and ovarian. Here are my thoughts and I would really appreciate feedback...since my thoughts are scattered all over the place. I'm an emotional wreck to say the least...

Here is where I am mentally...so.....

 What if I have my ovaries removed, why would I still need tamoxifen?

or

What if I elected to keep the ovaries and begin taking birth control pills?

or

What if I have the ovaries removed and still take birth control pills?

Don't birth control pills have the same "sort of" medicinal philosophy as tamoxifen?

Anonymous

tamoxifen ( or an aromatase inhibitor) is still needed after the ovaries are removed as estrogen is still produced by the adrenal glands, skin and fat. Birth control pills are generally contraindicated when you're at high risk for bc. I would talk over both issues with yor oncologist.

Anne