Ovary removal in lieu of Tamoxifen
Prayers for you all - Jody (Tekgal)
Comments
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Hi Jody,
I'm also on Tomoxifen and I too hate it. However I'm on it to try and prevent breast cancer in my remaining breast....because I have my uterus and ovaries it is scary as I know it can cause cancer there also and that is harder to detect. If my ovaries and uterus were gone I would not be so afraid of the drug....but that is not the purpose of my taking the drug....it's to prevent the breast cancer...so I guess what I'm trying to say is....did you have both breasts removed already? Why are you on the tomoxifen? I apologize I don't know much about all of this...hard for me to get any of my doctors to give me a straight answer. I'll be wishing the best for you and looking to see what the doc tells you. Take care, Dee0 -
hi dee, usually those taking tomoxifen have tumors that were estrogen positive,in otherwords your cancer feeds on estrogen. the tomoxifen blocks the litte receptors on the cancer that the estrogen lands on, preventing it from feeding it. removing the ovaries would also prevent your body from producing estrogen. since tekgal is so young,and still has many estrogen producing years left, this may be an option worth looking into for her. at least that is the way I understand it.deecaf1 said:Hi Jody,
I'm also on Tomoxifen and I too hate it. However I'm on it to try and prevent breast cancer in my remaining breast....because I have my uterus and ovaries it is scary as I know it can cause cancer there also and that is harder to detect. If my ovaries and uterus were gone I would not be so afraid of the drug....but that is not the purpose of my taking the drug....it's to prevent the breast cancer...so I guess what I'm trying to say is....did you have both breasts removed already? Why are you on the tomoxifen? I apologize I don't know much about all of this...hard for me to get any of my doctors to give me a straight answer. I'll be wishing the best for you and looking to see what the doc tells you. Take care, Dee0 -
Hi Everyone ~ My gyne is actually open to the idea! He agreed it was a viable option, and said it would be a simple procedure. The only main drawback is that I'd be thrown into menopause early (I am 34). But before he does anything, he wants me to get another opinion from a different oncologist, so I'm off to see a new onco next week. Wish me luck! Thanks to all who gave their two-cents ... I appreciate it!
Prayers to you all - Jody (Tekgal)0 -
I have not actually had the surgery but I am considering it, I still have two more taxol treatments before I start radiation and the thought of taxing tamoxifen has never thrilled me so know there might be an alternative makes me feel better can you let me know some of the problems you have had with tamoxifen, thanks.0
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Hi Laverne! I've been on Tamoxifin since Oct.2000. The only side affect I've had is hot flashes which comes and goes. It's totally bearable. With hotflashes comes menapause which is ok with me(I'm 49). Speak to your MD. The other side effects are rare! Cathylaverne said:I have not actually had the surgery but I am considering it, I still have two more taxol treatments before I start radiation and the thought of taxing tamoxifen has never thrilled me so know there might be an alternative makes me feel better can you let me know some of the problems you have had with tamoxifen, thanks.
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Estrogen Facts
Dear tekgal,
Before deciding on surgery, you should consider that although the ovaries are the main source, estrogen is also produced in fat cells with help from the adrenal glands. This is why we ER+ breast cancer survivors, who are post menopausal or who've had hysterectomies, are prescribed one of the aromatase inhibitors like Arimidex or Femara designed to block the adrenal glands from converting fat to estrogen. Even with the ovaries gone, estrogen production would not be eliminated.
This risk is something you should definitely discuss with your doctor.
Good luck,
terri0 -
I know this is an old post
Hi everyone.
I know this is an old post but I have exactly the same question.
After radiation I am suppose to start Tamoxifen. I spoke to my gyno and she found out from my genetic counselor that Tamoxifen for five years or having my ovaries removed would decrease my reoccurance for bc by the same percentage. I have to meet with my regualar oncologist next Wednesday and would like some feedback from people who have chosen to have their ovaries removed instead of taking Tamoxifen.
I am 41 but unable to have any more children so ovary removal won't affect my reproductive system like it would for younger women who could still possibly have children after Tamoxifen.
Thanks.0 -
Wolfi,Wolfi said:I know this is an old post
Hi everyone.
I know this is an old post but I have exactly the same question.
After radiation I am suppose to start Tamoxifen. I spoke to my gyno and she found out from my genetic counselor that Tamoxifen for five years or having my ovaries removed would decrease my reoccurance for bc by the same percentage. I have to meet with my regualar oncologist next Wednesday and would like some feedback from people who have chosen to have their ovaries removed instead of taking Tamoxifen.
I am 41 but unable to have any more children so ovary removal won't affect my reproductive system like it would for younger women who could still possibly have children after Tamoxifen.
Thanks.
I think you should talk to some experts about this. There are drawbacks to removing the ovaries, but they may be outweighed by the drawbacks to Tamoxifen. I read a recent article that talked about the ovaries' function in keeping your heart healthy among other things. I think this is case where you really have to weigh the risks and benefits with several experts to make an informed decision. Good luck.
Mimi0 -
I had a total hysterectomy...AND tami!Wolfi said:I know this is an old post
Hi everyone.
I know this is an old post but I have exactly the same question.
After radiation I am suppose to start Tamoxifen. I spoke to my gyno and she found out from my genetic counselor that Tamoxifen for five years or having my ovaries removed would decrease my reoccurance for bc by the same percentage. I have to meet with my regualar oncologist next Wednesday and would like some feedback from people who have chosen to have their ovaries removed instead of taking Tamoxifen.
I am 41 but unable to have any more children so ovary removal won't affect my reproductive system like it would for younger women who could still possibly have children after Tamoxifen.
Thanks.
The hyster was during my colon cancer, and the Tamoxifen was, of course, the breast cancer...
I was 49, clearly heading for menopause...so, for me, too, that wasn't an issue.
Ovaries supply much (not all) of the hormones that regulate all of our 'female functions'. As well as protecting the heart, keeping the bones strong, and some mood stabilization. In 5 years, you will be 46...just starting 'the change'...
I'm a bit of a minimalist, I guess. The surgeons took what they needed to, based on my family history (mom had endometrial cancer and breast cancer) and my troubles with rectal cancer. I guess I could have said 'keep my ovaries', maybe it would have kept my osteoporosis at bay, but I just wanted to fight this cancer monster with both barrels..lol...
I'm just over 3 years on Tamoxifen. I will go to 5, if I have no troubles. I will be 56 when I finish. If you choose surgery, that doesn't rule out ALSO taking Tami...but, again, I was always told I would still need the Tamoxifen for 5 years..hummmm....maybe I will ask MY onc!
Thanks for the information!
Hugs, Kathi0 -
I agree Mimimimivac said:Wolfi,
I think you should talk to some experts about this. There are drawbacks to removing the ovaries, but they may be outweighed by the drawbacks to Tamoxifen. I read a recent article that talked about the ovaries' function in keeping your heart healthy among other things. I think this is case where you really have to weigh the risks and benefits with several experts to make an informed decision. Good luck.
Mimi
I agree with Mimi. Your ovaries do keep your heart healthy as well as other functions. So, there are drawbacks to just having them removed. Just make sure that you are informed on tamox and the removal of your ovaries. Your doctors are the ones to help you with this Wolfi. Wishing you luck.
♥ Noel0 -
I've also wondered about thisWolfi said:I know this is an old post
Hi everyone.
I know this is an old post but I have exactly the same question.
After radiation I am suppose to start Tamoxifen. I spoke to my gyno and she found out from my genetic counselor that Tamoxifen for five years or having my ovaries removed would decrease my reoccurance for bc by the same percentage. I have to meet with my regualar oncologist next Wednesday and would like some feedback from people who have chosen to have their ovaries removed instead of taking Tamoxifen.
I am 41 but unable to have any more children so ovary removal won't affect my reproductive system like it would for younger women who could still possibly have children after Tamoxifen.
Thanks.
I did ask my surgeon about ovary removal when I first met with him and he told me that my cancer was ER positive, but he said that "there are drugs we can use that will give you the same effect as ovary removal". I should have pursued it more at the time - maybe I could have had it done at the same time as my lumpectomy.
I will ask my oncologist when I see her on the 10th to explore further.
Maybe you get the same side effects regardless of how you reduce the estrogen. The side effects may be related to the fact that the estrogen isn't there moreso than the drug that is used to remove it.
I'll let you guys know what my oncologist has to say.0 -
It is a very difficult questioncindycflynn said:I've also wondered about this
I did ask my surgeon about ovary removal when I first met with him and he told me that my cancer was ER positive, but he said that "there are drugs we can use that will give you the same effect as ovary removal". I should have pursued it more at the time - maybe I could have had it done at the same time as my lumpectomy.
I will ask my oncologist when I see her on the 10th to explore further.
Maybe you get the same side effects regardless of how you reduce the estrogen. The side effects may be related to the fact that the estrogen isn't there moreso than the drug that is used to remove it.
I'll let you guys know what my oncologist has to say.
Hi Wolfi,
I think it is a very difficult question.
First, it is a major surgery. Are you sure your body is ready now? If ovaries will be removed you will be having Menopausal symptoms similar to Tamoxifen. The only good reason is gyn cancer 1 % . As we all know now 1 % is a big number. Talk to your doctors both GY and oncologist.
I am taking Tamoxifen and OK with now. It took several moths for adjustment. Because Chemo drug induced early menopause along with all menopausal symptoms my biggest problem with Tamoxifen lack of energy and fatigue. But who knows, maybe it is still side effects of other cancer treatments.
My advice talk to your doctors, you do not need to rush your decision. You can try on Tamoxifen and see and prepare yourself for the surgery.
Hugs,
New Flower0 -
If you have the ovariesNew Flower said:It is a very difficult question
Hi Wolfi,
I think it is a very difficult question.
First, it is a major surgery. Are you sure your body is ready now? If ovaries will be removed you will be having Menopausal symptoms similar to Tamoxifen. The only good reason is gyn cancer 1 % . As we all know now 1 % is a big number. Talk to your doctors both GY and oncologist.
I am taking Tamoxifen and OK with now. It took several moths for adjustment. Because Chemo drug induced early menopause along with all menopausal symptoms my biggest problem with Tamoxifen lack of energy and fatigue. But who knows, maybe it is still side effects of other cancer treatments.
My advice talk to your doctors, you do not need to rush your decision. You can try on Tamoxifen and see and prepare yourself for the surgery.
Hugs,
New Flower
If you have the ovaries removed, does it mean you will switch to one of the other drugs, arimidex, etc. I know that since you have your ovaries tamoxifen is the drug that is used. It is my understanding that when we are estrogen positive, some additional drugs are needed to counter the estrogen we produce. Research whether you will put on another drug. There are unfortunately potential side effects to any and all drugs. I have had no side effects, others have had some, and some have had lots of side effects. For some, the side effects were so bad that quality of life was an issue. Have you been told that ovary removal will eliminate the need for any additional drugs or just the tamoxifen? Just be sure to ask all the questions.
Stef0 -
oophorectomy vs tamoxifen
My oncologist did not recommend the oophorectomy as he said the body will still produce estrogen (fat cells) and the surgery is not without adverse effects: think severe menopause and no HRT--not to mention surgical risks. Having said that, everyone must choose what is right for them.0 -
If a woman is postfauxma said:If you have the ovaries
If you have the ovaries removed, does it mean you will switch to one of the other drugs, arimidex, etc. I know that since you have your ovaries tamoxifen is the drug that is used. It is my understanding that when we are estrogen positive, some additional drugs are needed to counter the estrogen we produce. Research whether you will put on another drug. There are unfortunately potential side effects to any and all drugs. I have had no side effects, others have had some, and some have had lots of side effects. For some, the side effects were so bad that quality of life was an issue. Have you been told that ovary removal will eliminate the need for any additional drugs or just the tamoxifen? Just be sure to ask all the questions.
Stef
If a woman is post menopausal, aromatase blockers for estrogen positive women can be used in lieu of Tamoxifen. These are Arimidex and Femara. My onc. indicated she would be putting me on one of these due to the side effects that can result from Tamoxifen. These are newer drugs but have proven to be just as effective. They, too, have their set of side effects. This is not to say that everyone experiences them. I do still have my ovaries too.0 -
I did both!CypressCynthia said:oophorectomy vs tamoxifen
My oncologist did not recommend the oophorectomy as he said the body will still produce estrogen (fat cells) and the surgery is not without adverse effects: think severe menopause and no HRT--not to mention surgical risks. Having said that, everyone must choose what is right for them.
I am in the process of healing from my oophorectomy and I am also taking Tamoxifen. I experience just a few hot flashes (usually 1-2 hrs after taking) a day...very tolerable!
I had worse side effects before my surgery on the Tamoxifen. However, I am going through several risk from the surgery, but no major menopause symptoms so far.
It turned out not to be a simple laproscopic procedure. Since I had previously had a hysterectomy 4 years ago, my ovaries had adhered to my abdominal wall and scar tissue had encapsulated them around my intestines. Took 4 incisions to remove them.
Then I laughed to hard (2 weeks into recovery) and have torn the internal sutures and may now have an abdominal hernia that requires more surgery. Will know in a couple more weeks. Now I am back on complete best rest.
So, yes, there are risk. But there was no question in my mind about having it done. 1% is still 1% and that much better in my favor. I'm using every arsenal available to me in this fight! If they told me I could gain another 1% by eating 1/2 gallon of ice-cream a day, I would do that too. As a matter of fact...I'm thinking of testing that theory! ♥Pammy0 -
I chose not to take tamox soAkiss4me said:I did both!
I am in the process of healing from my oophorectomy and I am also taking Tamoxifen. I experience just a few hot flashes (usually 1-2 hrs after taking) a day...very tolerable!
I had worse side effects before my surgery on the Tamoxifen. However, I am going through several risk from the surgery, but no major menopause symptoms so far.
It turned out not to be a simple laproscopic procedure. Since I had previously had a hysterectomy 4 years ago, my ovaries had adhered to my abdominal wall and scar tissue had encapsulated them around my intestines. Took 4 incisions to remove them.
Then I laughed to hard (2 weeks into recovery) and have torn the internal sutures and may now have an abdominal hernia that requires more surgery. Will know in a couple more weeks. Now I am back on complete best rest.
So, yes, there are risk. But there was no question in my mind about having it done. 1% is still 1% and that much better in my favor. I'm using every arsenal available to me in this fight! If they told me I could gain another 1% by eating 1/2 gallon of ice-cream a day, I would do that too. As a matter of fact...I'm thinking of testing that theory! ♥Pammy
I chose not to take tamox so far. It wasn't going to increase my chances by much. I am already at an only 1 to 2% chance at risk. Personally for me, that is good enough. My oncologist just said that they won't tell you 100%, because that just isn't realistic. Even people that haven't had bc, have a % of risk. And, tamox has a lot of side effects. Some have them, some don't. One of them being cancer itself, cataracts, blood clots, just way too many. I wish everyone the best that take it.
As for removing my ovaries, it wasn't recommended. Your ovaries do a lot of good for you. And, if not necessary, I chose to keep them.
Hugs, Diane ♥0
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