Need input on ovaries

I've had several discussions with my doctor regarding taking my ovaries when she removes my uterus. We don't know which procedure will be used yet. I'm torn. The concern is family history regarding various types of cancer which is leading me to have them removed; however, there are so many additional problems if I do.

We're setting the date tomorrow or Tuesday, so I need to make a decision.

Any advice?

Thanks!
Susan

I understand this is a hard decision. I've been going through this decision process for 2 years. I was first told I needed a hyst 2+ years ago at age 32. I got a second opinion and the second doc agreed that I needed a hyst and that both of my ovaries looked bad (via ultrasound). The doc comments on the large cysts on my left ovary every time I see him and it is the right side that bothers me the most (weird, eh?)
But, I'm not looking forward to the hormone jungle that I'm going to be going through since I'm still only 34 years old and far from natural menopause ~and~ since I shouldn't have estrogen due to endo...
It is just a decision that you have to make though and just be sure that you don't rush into anything and that you make the best decision for you.
Sorry I can't be of any more help.

Thanks for your input. I'm 41 and am not ready for the jungle either. It's all very scary! Good luck to you as well!

Susan

You don't say what the reason is for your castle visit, and the reason may have some bearing. Also, if there is a possibility that you will have to have a future surgery to have them removed, you may want to factor that in. My best suggestion is asking your doctor for his/her expert opinion, and even getting a second opinion.

I have endo/adeno and problems with cysts, so my ovaries HAVE to go. I do have a great surgeon though, and he is confident that he will be able to get all the endo and put me on a low dose of HRT. For me, my hormones are so crazy now, that with the exception of possible hot flashes, I don't think I will be any worse off. I already have night sweats even though natural menopause is no where in sight.

This is a tough decision, and best made with all the information you can find. There are some great resources on this site to explore, and I would think your doctor could give you some info too. Whatever you do, make sure you are comfortable with your decision. I believe that feeling confident in your decision will make things much easier.

I wish you well and hope your wait is pleasant and anxiety free!

My doctor said to me he will look at the ovaries and will try to leave at least one if the other looked bad but he left both saying they were both good. I already take medication for my underactive thyroid so he was very concern about me not having at least one ovary left. I would suggest you get a second opinion it will help you feel confident about your decision. Good luck!

I had an ovary removed 5 years ago and hope to keep the other with my TAH. If it is not in good shape, I'll have it removed of course. I'm 37. I think they call your age (41) the "grey area" for whether or not to remove. I believe that under 40, it is considered best to keep the ovary or ovaries. Over 45, they are generally removed because you should be close to menopause anyway. If your problems are connected to the ovaries or there is a family history of cancer, etc - you may want to remove. As someone else mentioned ask for your Dr's expert advice.

I decided to have mine taken out since I had polycystic ovaries which caused all kinds of problems for me even at a young age. Not looking forward to the hormone jungle either but since I'm 45 figured the hormones would only be good for another 5 years or so anyway(and since I didn't usually ovulate anyway and had hot flashes/sweats occasionally even as a teen they haven't really worked properly well--ever). My personal risk of ovarian cancer was very high based on a number of factors and one ovary was actually causing me pain so I decided to let them take them. It's a tough decision so make sure you weigh all your risks and benefits in deciding. Good luck!!