I am 47 and I have been diagnosed with HER2 + and oestrogen + breast cancer, grade 2 stage ductal invasive stage 0/1. I have gone down a rabbit hole of investigating having my ovaries out instead of having Zoladex for 5 years. What correlation is there between breast cancer and increased risk of ovarian cancer? Are there any stats? I have read that there is an increased risk of OC if you have BC but that is it. I have read that having ovaries out can cause problems as well so feel this is a decision not to be taken lightly. I am currently 2 cycles through of 6 cycles of chemo and this is adding to my anxieties. Any advice would be gratefully appreciated.
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Hi, did they mention hormone tablets for 5 years too? I had with Zoladex 2 years together with Letrozole.
No, no mention of any other tablets. It’s on my list of questions to ask my oncologist though, didn’t know if they were waiting until after I had surgery to decide.
That’s good, get a list so you don’t forget.
Mine was after surgery x
Hi whippetlove,
Thanks for posting.
It’s understandable to want to explore the different options available for your treatment. This can be overwhelming, and as you say, add to the anxiety.
Ovarian suppression describes treatments that stop the ovaries from making oestrogen. This is important in pre-menopausal women with oestrogen positive breast cancers, as this type of breast cancer uses oestrogen to grow. The ovaries can be suppressed either permanently, such as by surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy), or temporarily, by using drugs to stop the ovaries producing oestrogen, such as Zoladex. If you haven’t already, you may find it helpful to talk through the pros and cons of each option with your treatment team, as the decision is quite an individual one.
Some people are more at risk of developing both breast and ovarian cancers. This is usually because they have inherited an altered gene. The most common inherited altered genes that increase the risk of breast cancer are called BRCA1 and BRCA2. If you are concerned about your family history of breast or ovarian cancer, you can speak to your treatment team who can refer you for a family history assessment if needed.
As @ashac93 says, writing down any questions you have for your oncologist can also be helpful.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can often be helpful. Our Someone Like Me service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. You can be in touch with your volunteer by phone or email and they can share their personal experiences to answer your questions, offer support or simply listen to how you are feeling.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Katie
Breast Care Nurse
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