Removal of ovaries

I'm scheduled for my surgery - one month from today. I've been reading the Hyster Sisters book - and find I have a question. I am scheduled for a TVH for a prolapsed uterus (almost 3rd degree). I've had this over 12 years - with no real problems - but it is time for the surgery.

I'm 63 years old - and was post-menopausal at age 43 (with 6 year old at home). I've been on HRT most of those years - with no problems. Because I have a strong history of familial osteoporosis, I've chosen to stay on HRT. I was off HRT for 6 years after I had breast cancer (3 types - ductal, tubal and lobular which necessitated a double mastectomy) and was taking tamoxifen. All of that was 13 years ago - and statistically a non event in my life.


But, the doctor said that at my age and with my history of cancer, he was going to remove my ovaries (providing that they came out easily) - just as a precaution. Since they stopped working some 20 years ago, I'm not exactly wedded to keeping them. However, I note that there are different opinions - mostly from far younger gals than me. Any advice?

(((((((Joyce))))))))),

You have to decide for yourself what you want to do about your ovaries.

I can tell you ,at 47, I had my ovaries removed along with everything else.

I did it to lower my risk of ovarian cancer due to using fertility drugs years ago.

Since you have a history of cancer, and your Dr. recommends it, I would give removal serious consideration.

Best wishes,

Pamcat

It is not necessary to take hormones to prevent osteoporosis- there are other drugs designed specificially for that. In addition , it is not known how much of a dose of estrogen will guarantee that you won't get osteoprosis. With a history of cancer I would not use hormones. I would take your doctor's advice and remove the ovaries, given your age.