Forum Discussion

emrod11's avatar
emrod11
Member
11 years ago

Oophorectomy! (Ovaries & menopause)

It is nearly a year since my diagnosis, invasive grade 3, her2+, er+ . What a year! I have finished chemo, radiation, still doing herceptin and last week had my ovaries removed.  I am 42. 

What I didn't realise is that I would feel 20 years older.

I was told of the side effects, but boy have they hit me like a tonne of bricks.  Hot flushes slam into me with no warning, I am in a shitty mood constantly, amongst other symptoms.

Feeling down as it just seems to never end, I feel extremely unattractive to my partner (because yes it's hard to have sex too), I feel I am constantly in a crappy mood with the kids. 

I have gone all through my treatment with a positive attitude, yet now I just can't be bothered. It may be that I am still in pain from my surgery, I don't know.

Maybe I just need someone to tell me that this is normal!

chemotherapy
her2
side-effects

6 Replies

  • DaisyMarigold's avatar
    DaisyMarigold
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Lana - so sorry, I didn't realise you had already joined the group - we have about 25 members now and I'm losing track of the names. But I should have checked. Yes, talk to your naturopath. They do the same sorts of things as medical herbalists, but medical herbalists tend to have a much deeper knowledge of herbal medicine. The one I go to did her PhD in herbalism. It's a good thing if menopause is being talked about more. Good on Deborah Hutton releasing a book. Jean Kittson might be the comedian? Do hope your naturopath can help with the hot flushes. Pam x

  • DaisyMarigold's avatar
    DaisyMarigold
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Lana - so sorry, I didn't realise you had already joined the group - we have about 25 members now and I'm losing track of the names. But I should have checked. Yes, talk to your naturopath. They do the same sorts of things as medical herbalists, but medical herbalists tend to have a much deeper knowledge of herbal medicine. The one I go to did her PhD in herbalism. It's a good thing if menopause is being talked about more. Good on Deborah Hutton releasing a book. Jean Kittson might be the comedian? Do hope your naturopath can help with the hot flushes. Pam x

  • Lana's avatar
    Lana
    Member
    11 years ago
    Thanks do much for your reply. I did join the lost libido group and jotted down the recipe for the natural lubricant. I do get a lot if hot flushes but no sweats thank goodness! I have never been to a herbalist but I do have a very good naturopath . I am due to see her again so I will see what she comes up with. I have noticed on the TV lately the topic of menopause being spoke about more and more. Deborah Hutton has just released a book and I think a comedian ( kittson) or a name like that. I can't think of get name off hand but I can picture her. She is very funny. I think her book would be very amusing. Anyway thanks again and take care XO
  • Lana's avatar
    Lana
    Member
    11 years ago
    Thanks do much for your reply. I did join the lost libido group and jotted down the recipe for the natural lubricant. I do get a lot if hot flushes but no sweats thank goodness! I have never been to a herbalist but I do have a very good naturopath . I am due to see her again so I will see what she comes up with. I have noticed on the TV lately the topic of menopause being spoke about more and more. Deborah Hutton has just released a book and I think a comedian ( kittson) or a name like that. I can't think of get name off hand but I can picture her. She is very funny. I think her book would be very amusing. Anyway thanks again and take care XO
  • Lana's avatar
    Lana
    Member
    11 years ago

    I am 38 and just had my ovaries out last week. The hot flushes are more intense I must admit. I'm not sure if I'm moody at the kids because its school holidays or beacause of the menopause. I'm frustrated because I can't exercise as much as I'd like due to the surgery'.

    I have been feeling a bit low for the last couple of days. It just seems to be neverending doesn't it? I had a good cry last night on my own and that seemed to help and I have been keeping a journal about my experiences and feelings.

    You are not alone! There are plenty of us out here in cyberspace feeling exactly the same way as you.

    Maybe you could go and do something just for yourself next week. A facial or go to the movies. Forget about your problems for a few hours.

    Take Care XO

  • Lana's avatar
    Lana
    Member
    11 years ago

    I am 38 and just had my ovaries out last week. The hot flushes are more intense I must admit. I'm not sure if I'm moody at the kids because its school holidays or beacause of the menopause. I'm frustrated because I can't exercise as much as I'd like due to the surgery'.

    I have been feeling a bit low for the last couple of days. It just seems to be neverending doesn't it? I had a good cry last night on my own and that seemed to help and I have been keeping a journal about my experiences and feelings.

    You are not alone! There are plenty of us out here in cyberspace feeling exactly the same way as you.

    Maybe you could go and do something just for yourself next week. A facial or go to the movies. Forget about your problems for a few hours.

    Take Care XO