LAVH: 4 days before LAVH surgery - questions about one ovary removal and PCOS symptoms

Next Tuesday is my surgery - - - and I can't believe it is only 3.5 days away! (((GULP))))

I am not having any second thoughts about the surgery itself; I have to medically have it done and God has given me peace about my decision, but I have some questions that I don't feel were answered by my GYN.

Research online is leaving me empty handed about how removing my right ovary, along with my uterus, will affect my PCOS.

I know that removing the ovaries does not CURE it, but I am wondering what happens with only one. My fear is that leaving the left ovary behind (to keep some hormones circulating) means that it will get the full force and brunt of the PCOS "ickies" affecting it, and that it will be only a matter of time before I get a large cyst on that side too, forcing it's removal like my right.

Does anyone have any thoughts or links about this? I am all about doing research, but am not finding anything about this online for some reason.

Thank you!

Victorian Rose

Hi

You have a very good question. I can share my experience with you. Maybe it will help.

I did have both ovaries removed, and according to both my Endocrinologist and Family Dr, having both ovaries removed makes PCOS easier to treat. The reason given, is because of the cycling of the ovaries. If you keep even one ovary, it is common to need to be on a birth control pill to try to control the cysts. Without any ovaries, I am able to get all of my hormones in balance with diet, exercise, and daily estrogen and spironolactone. I also take synthroid because my PCOS affected my thyroid too

Your concern is very valid. What does your Dr recommend? I have read here where other women with PCOS have kept one or both ovaries, and regretted it because they still had painful cysts.

So, if you keep an ovary, you are likely looking at taking the birth control pill, and if you don't keep either ovary, then you are talking about HRT. HRT has come a long ways, and bio-identical estrogen and progesterone is available at a very low cost, if needed. I prefer the bio-identical HRT to the risks that come with the Birth Control Pill.

The best thing you can do for yourself, in my humble opinion, is to find a Dr, possibly and endocrinologist, who understands PCOS. It has been my experience that not all Dr's who treat surgical menopause really understand that PCOS requires a different level of testing and treatment.

Let us know what you decide and how you are doing.


and Best Wishes for your surgery and recovery,
Kay