Ovaries

Hiya,

I did have zoladex injections for 7/8 months to switch off my ovaries. The injection is not very nice, it is quite a big needle - it helps if you don't look! I found it a bit hit and miss depending on who gave the injection. Some nurses were fine and I could't hardly feel it. But there was one nurse that openly said she didn't like giving this injections and I always found they hurt quite a lot when she gave it! Also a bit of a nuisance because I had to take time off work every 4 weeks. 

I always had an oophorectomy on the cards. My bc was 8/8 estrogen positive and I had high lymph node involvement. I would have had it sooner but my onc forgot to make the referral. The op is straight forward - a lot simpler than a mx. 4 little incisions that are hardly noticeable now. Two weeks off work as you can't drive. Minimal pain, easily managed. 

Menopause kicked in during chemo, so didn't notice major changes. 

Cwtches,

Gay xxx

I've started Zolodex, but I'm going to ask about having my ovaries removed, however as the restriction of an injection every 28 days gets in the way of family holidays and work.

Not convinced they'll agree, as I've just turned 50 and was having hot flushes before being diagnosed

Hi so have you had your ovaries removed yet,

any side effects with the injections or with the ovaries 

removed.

karen xxx

Hi

do you have any side effects from the injections 

i am 48, just the thought of another operation 

after having a double mastectomy last May.

karen xxx

Hi , just to give you a different point of view. I have been having Zoladex injections for just over 3years. I discussed having the ovaries removed but like you couldn’t face anymore surgery at that time. Now as time has gone on I have got used to having the injection which I personally feel hurts no more than a blood test, depending on who is giving it and also whether you have much tummy to put it in to....I have plenty! 

Side effects have been typical menopausal side effects, hot flushes, night sweats and joint pain. Which would likely be the same if you had the surgery. 

I think it’s a personal choice but not one you need to make right away. If at any point over the coming months/years you decided you would prefer the surgery then the option is there. 

Good Luck with making a decision that suits you! Sal xx

Hi do you have them every month?

thanks for your input on, who gives you the

injections.

many thanks 

karen

Hi Karen () I actually have them every 3wks as my ovaries were very stubborn and I was having them to treat Secondary Breast Cancer, so important to stop the ovaries producing oestrogen!

Its given to me by the nurse at my GP surgery. I usually have the same nurse and we have a good laugh, believe it or not  xx

This is really helpful info. I have my apt with oncologist coming up and I am going to ask about having my ovaries removed. Only had a few zoladex injections so far but have it although the first 2 were awful but seemed to be linked to my other stomach injections

Hi I have decided to have mine removed, been informed 

injections every month for the first six months then 

three monthly after that.

many thanks 

I am 42 and asked my oncologist last week if I could have my ovaries removed. He was very reluctant and told me that there is a risk that if I do that I may have hot flushes for rest of my life as opposed to 'Just' the next few years. I am at my wits end with all the dreadful side effects of zoladex and exemestane.  Feels like there are no choices.