Upcoming hysterectomy: Advice remove or not to remove ovaries

I am 49 and schedule for hysterectomy October 4,2016 I have fibroids that are causing constant bleeding and anemia is setting in. With horrible moods swings with other componates and I'm pretty sure menopause in setting in. I have ovarian cysts that so far aren't a bother. And Dr suggested removing ovaries at same time. I lost two Aunts to breast and ovarian cancer and a sister that has had it and another cervical cancer both still living. I am feeling like I want to just have everything removed. Any advice as to the pros and cons on this?

I had my TVH on 3-29-16. I left my ovaries since I'm low risk for cancers and I'm only 30, 29 at surgery time. However I've had multiple issues since with other things. But as for my ovaries, they're coming out October 5th! I had adhesion surgery in July because the pain, they were "glued" down. I have cysts constantly (always have), one is now partially solid. And horrible pain again so they believe more adhesions. So we have now decided to just remove them, I wish we did when we did everything else.

[well that was my concern as well I did not want to go back in to have removed at another time for me I am close to a menopause age and I have all the children I will physically have so with family history I am leaning on removal of ovaries. Best of luck in your surgery please keep in touch so I know how it went with you a day after mine!!!





QUOTE=Nikkib2016;4830090]I had my TVH on 3-29-16. I left my ovaries since I'm low risk for cancers and I'm only 30, 29 at surgery time. However I've had multiple issues since with other things. But as for my ovaries, they're coming out October 5th! I had adhesion surgery in July because the pain, they were "glued" down. I have cysts constantly (always have), one is now partially solid. And horrible pain again so they believe more adhesions. So we have now decided to just remove them, I wish we did when we did everything else.[/quote]

It's such a personal decision, and part of what comes in to play is family history. I'm 54 and kept mine, even though I was probably menopausal (not that I'd have known with the bleeding). Ovaries do still supply low amounts of our hormones. However, like Nikki, I'm a low risk. I may have considered otherwise if my family background were different. Another thing to consider is whether you'll be able to have HRT or if it's out of the question. You can read some of the pros & cons here at Should I Keep My Healthy Ovary? As it is, my doctor said he'd take mine if he noted any issues.

One thing about this site is that you'll read all sides of an issue, and no one is going to pass judgement on you for whatever decision you make.

(((Lisalulu2))) It does sound like there's a lot of related cancer in your family, but do keep in mind that doesn't necessarily mean there's a genetic connection. Has there been any genetic testing done among your family members? That could certainly help sway the decision one way or the other. Speaking of that, we do have a GYN Genetics forum as well which might have some helpful information on topic.

All that said, with your history and at your stage in life, it wouldn't seem an unreasonable choice to go with removal which is likely why your doctor is recommending it. We always say to do your own research, get as many opinions as you need, then do what you feel is best for yourself long term. Listen to that little voice inside. She's usually pretty smart.

Sending hugs and all good thoughts your way.

[oh thank you for your advice it was helpful to see it put that way thank you


QUOTE=monami;4830389](((Lisalulu2))) It does sound like there's a lot of related cancer in your family, but do keep in mind that doesn't necessarily mean there's a genetic connection. Has there been any genetic testing done among your family members? That could certainly help sway the decision one way or the other. Speaking of that, we do have a GYN Genetics forum as well which might have some helpful information on topic.

All that said, with your history and at your stage in life, it wouldn't seem an unreasonable choice to go with removal which is likely why your doctor is recommending it. We always say to do your own research, get as many opinions as you need, then do what you feel is best for yourself long term. Listen to that little voice inside. She's usually pretty smart.

Sending hugs and all good thoughts your way. [/quote]