Hi everyone. My Oncologist has given me the option of continuing three monthly Zoladex implants or having keyhole surgery to have removal of ovaries. Have been on Zoladex for five years. Had a pause in treatment and had hormone levels tested but then Zoladex recommenced. Just wondered if anyone has been in similar situation and could discuss pros and cons please?
Hi
I had my ovaries removed by keyhole in july 09 after 15 months of zoladex. Best thing i did. No different side effects than zoladex. Simple op, day surgery, driving 5 days later. Continued calcium supps and bone density scans. Also removes your risk of ovarian cancer. Wish id has it done sooner.
Thanks for advice. Think I need to ask Oncologist how long I may have to continue Zoladex for. The injections don’t really bother me but are a minor inconvenience I could do without. Just wonderered why I haven’t been offerered this option before.
Hi Myfanwy, I would encourage you to do your own research on the long term effects of having an oophorectomy. you will have to be on HRT permanently which is now considered a cancer risk. Heart problems are 7 times greater in later life for women who have had this procedure.
It may cut the risk of one cancer but may bring on others long term!!
Best wishes
Leadie
Hi Leadie, yes I think a little more research is in order. Nothings simple is it! Part of me is a little cynical thinking that its a cheaper option for the NHS rather than continuing on Zoladex for another few years.
Best Wishes
Myfanwy
Just to add that if you have an ooph then you will never be put on hrt as that would defeat the object of having the ooph in the first place (ie to remove hormones)
lolly, I know women that are on HRT from the procedure, you still need some level of hormones in the body to function
Best wishes
Leadie
Lolly I think you will find that women are put on HRT after an oophrectomy as you still need a level of hormones to function
Best wishes
Leadie
If your bc is er+ then the point of having ovaries removed is to stop main source of oestrogen. If you have hrt you are replacing this hormone and defeating the object. My ovaries were removed in july 09 age 35.
Even without an ooph, women with er+ cancers are taken off hrt.
I had a bilateral salpingo oophrectomy in June because I was allergic to tamox. Turns out I’m allergic to Arimadex too. However the op was fine although I had related complications with my bowel a couple of weeks afterwards. Fingers crossed this is now sorted and I don’t regret having the op as I feel so much better…
I was told by the consultant that I could definately NOT take hrt as er+. The whole point of having the ovaries out and taking Arimidex was to stop any oestrogen being produced.
Katie