Hysterectomy-keeping ovaries- tamoxifen or AI needed?

Hello all! I’ve been taking tamoxifen for about a year and a half. Worst side effect has been terrible heavy periods with pain and cramping. Was considering an endometrial ablation. Went to gyno and had transvaginal unltrasound- she says no to the ablation. Ultrasound found adenomyosis and enlarged uterus. Recommended hysterectomy. I’m only 45 and don’t want to remove ovaries- read that it can increase heart disease (which runs in my family). So, a couple of questions- anyone have hysterectomy and keep their ovaries? And, if I did that would I stay on tamoxifen or have to switch to an AI (I’m currently pre-menopausal). So many things to consider. I’m feeling a little overwhelmed. TIA

Hi Flag, I had a hysterectomy but kept my ovaries 4 years prior to my first breast cancer diagnosis. I did both Tamoxifen and Arimidex after I finished chemo. We relied on blood tests to tell when my ovaries had shut down.

With progression to Stage IV after 12 years, I am back on Arimidex and will begin Ibrance next week. The hysterectomy was one of the best days of my life! I was so happy to be rid of that beast. My last period lasted 24 days and I was still bleeding when I was taken into surgery. I was around 46 at the time. Again, I never regretted it.

I wish you the best with your decisions.

Thanks ladies for sharing your stories! I have a telehealth appointment today with my mo, so I’ll be interested to hear what her opinions are as well. Stay safe!