Tamoxifen side effects?

Hi Belinda,

Thanks so much for that response. It was really interesting to read. The way Tamoxifen has been explained to me is that it is normal to still get your periods as it is not meant to stop the oestrogen production, Tamoxifen is supposed to just stop the oestrogen getting to the cancer cells and, incidentally, other cells in your body. I read on the internet somewhere that it does sometimes mean that your body produces more oestrogen as it thinks you aren't producing enough. So I think it is normal for us to have oestrogen in our bodies with Tamoxifen it is just inhibiting it from helping any stray cancer cells from growing. I am a little confused though and am really glad that you gave me that information as I am seeing my oncologist in a couple of weeks and will make sure that I definitely ask about it more. When I started taking it, I don't think I asked enough questions, I was still very much in the shock phase and I am just starting to work through it all now. I do find the whole Tamoxifen thing very confusing.

So you have decided on the oophrectomy (is that the right word?). I read a study that showed that the side effects as in the menopausal effects of an oophrectomy are not as full on as chemical menopause (Zoladex) so you may find that some of the menopausal symptoms you have been having lessen a little which would be good.

Anyway, do you mind if I ask who your oncologist is? I am really interested in knowing more about the doctors in this field as I only really know of my medical team and I know there are lots of second opinions to be had.

Thanks heaps.

Sara