Oophorectomy -how bad are the side effects

trying2staypositive7

I know that as cancer survivors that we all go through tough treatments and come out on the other side stronger. But, I am really nervous/apprehensive about my upcoming oophorectomy in December. I was diagnosed stage IIIC in November 2013. I had mastectomy (right side only), chemo, radiation, and now I'm working through the reconstruction phase. I have an excellent MO that I trust who suggested ovary removal due to the SOFT trial and the fact that I'm severely anemic due to heavy menstruation (my OB/GYN suggested a hysterectomy for that). I trust the doctors' opinions but I'm just really scared of the side effects. Can those of you that have gone this route advise me of the side effects? How bad are they? I know about the hot flashes. I'm worried about the vaginal dryness, bone issues, heart issues, heck all of the issues! Thank you for anything you can share!

Kathleen26

The worst side effects for me were sexual. Worst has been the fact that desire suddenly just disappeared, and I really didn't understand that it would happen like that. I was on aromatase inhibitors for several years, and suffered terribly from vaginal dryness and atrophy. I switched to Tamoxifen a couple of years ago and the dryness issue is greatly diminished. The atrophy has stayed about the same. Because of the Tamoxifen, I don't have any bone issues. I get the occasional hot flash, but they really do not bother me that much. I don't have any heart issues.

I hated getting my period, so from that aspect, it's been a great positive. If it wasn't for the sexual issue, I would be perfectly satisfied with my life without ovaries.

Jenwith4kids

I had an ooph about a year ago. Surgery wise - it was easy-peasy, though I did take it easy for almost a week afterwards.

I am happy to report that my husband and I have pretty good sex. Sometimes it's even great. It did take me a little while to get there, and frankly, once I got off the anti-depressant things got even better in that area.

I have hot flashes but they aren't terrible. I take magnesium, I swear that helps keep them manageable. My dexa was normal. I have joint pain, but again not so bad that I can't live it - and exercise helps.

I'm 48, was pre-menopausal when I was dx'd at 46. My period never came back after chemo ended. I didn't want to take Tamoxifen because I was afraid of uterine cancer and I really didn't want my ovaries because even if they weren't working, I was terrified of the estrogen (I was 100% ER+).

My sister was in the same boat as me, a little younger, not quite 100% ER+ but still ER+. She did not want to have her ovaries out. She was HER2+ so she has scans. At her last scan there was a 4 cm mass on her ovary - subsequent tests are so far showing that it's benign but why the heck have to have that stress??

My 2 cents: have the ooph!!

I hope that helps.

Jen

trying2staypositive7

thank you Jen and Kathleen so much! You have really put my mind at ease. I guess it was just the fear of unknown. My periods are pretty bad and I will definitely not miss them. I will keep in mind the magnesium and I'll keep you guys posted once I have the surgery. Thank you again for sharing with me. You don't know how much it helped me! Sending you guys big hugs and I hope that all is well with you. Thank you my cancer sisters

Jenwith4kids

happy to help!!