Prophylactic ovary removal

[H3ath0r]

I have entered chemotherapy induced menopause at age 40.  I am being treated for triple positive breast cancer, stage II, with a lumpectomy, A-C-T chemo, herceptin, radiation, and Tamoxifen.
Since I've been considering a tubal ligation (when I'm stronger again) because I don't want any more children, I am contemplating a prophylactic oophorectomy because it would offer me better protection against recurrence of my cancer, will accomplish my desire for permanent fertility control, and avoid me having to come out of menopause at 45 (when I finish Tamoxifen) and then go through the natural transition again later.
They are not interested in doing genetic testing on me as I have no risk factors.
I have no family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or osteoporosis.  The maternal grandparents had bad hearts but were obese.  My heart is healthy.
Very interested to understand the permanent after-effects of a decision to move forward with this.


This discussion is related to Prophylactic ovary removal?.

[H3ath0r]

Thanks, Kathy, for that historical perspective.  I AM getting excellent care (in Canada).  But wanting to do absolutely everything now to fight the fight so if anything recurs in the future I'll have no regrets knowing I did everything I could to increase my odds.  
I have three daughters, 9, 9, and 6 whom I want to see grow up.

[survivor_susie]

Hi,
It sounds like you're receiving terrific care!
My family does have a history of breast cancer.  It doesn't have a history of ovarian cancer, yet I did get ovarian cancer after my breast cancer.  If I had to do it over again, I'd have had an oophorectomy after my mastectomy!  My cousin decided to have the oophorectomy before any cancer developed, since ours is estrogen fueled.  Her insurance did cover the surgery.  Wish I'd thought to have it done earlier...
Permanent after effects?  No more cramps.  OK, some hot flashes, but I'm alive to complain about them!
Good luck on your decision.
Kathy