Lin Lin. My understanding of Zoladex is that it shuts down your production of hormones. You need to be menopausal to take the aromatase inhibitors-- such as Letrazole -- which is why some women have the Zolodex implants at the same time.
In theory, once you have reached full menopause you don't need the Zolodex anymore which is why some older ladies only have to have it for a while then they can stop. That's because their bodies have reached the stage they have naturally stopped producing most hormones.
I am 53 and was perimenopausal (still having the occasional period) and I decided to have my ovaries removed. I did this for two reasons, to cut the risk of ovarian cancer and to complete my menopause so I wouldn't need Zolodex while taking Letrazole.
You also produce and store some hormones in your body fat. Some ladies still have higher levels even after menopause or having their ovaries removed so still might have to have Zolodex for a couple of years.
It's all a bit complicated and there seem to be different reasons for different ladies. It will become a bit clearer for you as time passes and you learn more about your disease and treatments. Keep asking your oncologist questions.
