Hello Ksv

I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been given a diagnosis of ovarian cancer and that you're now facing the possibility of a full hysterectomy. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about the impact that this may have on your life. 

We do have some information on our website about coping with sex hormone symptoms that you may find useful to read through. I'd also suggest talking with your specialist, and also your GP, about the concerns you have any managing any symptoms you develop after surgery. There are some non-hormonal alternatives that can help manage side effects such as hot flashes and supplements that can help reduce the risk of problems such as bone density. Some of that information is in the link I've given you above. 

You might want to have a chat with one of our team of nurses to talk things through with them. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

I do hope that things go well for you Ksv. keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi,

I have been placed into surgical menopause at 25 following my recent oophorectomy due to my uterine cancer. I am also not allowed to take HRT.

Whilst menopause is different for everyone, I have actually found it so bearable. I always wear layers that I can remove for hot flushes and ensure that I have a fully charged portable fan when I’m going out, night sweats aren’t all that nice but have a fan by the bed and hopefully they will be minimal.

it isn’t the nicest in the world but it is absolutely bearable! I am being referred to a holistic hospital via my hospital in London to support me in ways that aren’t HRT .

Hi thanks so much for the reply did this has brought me a little bit of comfort knowing that you've found it bearable sorry to hear your story but glad you've been referred to a holistic hospital too which will hopefully help ..

I was wondering did your menopause symptoms start immediately after surgery and have they eased at all with time 

 No problem at all! The symptoms did start pretty soon after surgery and I had my first hot flush around 6 hours post op. I had the surgery only 3 months ago and so they haven’t lessened just yet but you learn to adapt to them very quickly. My first hot flush also came with a panic attack probably as it was so new so just be mindful to breathe through them and centre yourself in the present moment. If you have any other questions I am here :-)

This is so useful to know what I might experience also how is your recovery going from surgery as your 3 month only after surgery I presume your still taking it easy . Have you found your tiredness/ concentration been affected ? I have recently got a new job and I have read all sorts of horror stories and this hasn't helped but you've said it's bearable so it really makes me much less nervous. X

I had an open myomectomy in February, an open hysterectomy in May and then I had my oophorectomy in July which was keyhole. I have found recovery from all 3 procedures really smooth, if you are having open surgery I’d recommend that you learn the roll method for sitting up as it is a lifesaver! I’m back at work full time and have been since around 2 weeks post keyhole surgery. I am glad you feel less nervous, I was honestly so worried going in for my surgery but I am pleasantly surprised to report that life really hasn’t changed all that much xx

Bless you you've had a lot of surgery however you sound your in a great place now and probably relieved that hopefully you won't be needing anymore surgery  

I have had a open right ovary fallopian tube and cancerous cyst removal in Aug so I know a little of what to expect but thanks for the top tip of rolling I will try that and I'm really glad to hear your recovery has gone well , thanks so much for the info it has helped so much

Wow really it's always the horror stories we hear it's so nice to hear a positive one and all being well I will try and share mine once I have had surgery ... x

Of course, I read every article i could find about menopause before my operation and there was rarely any positivity to it at all. One other thing I will mention is dryness, that really kicked in for me about 3 weeks ago but the doctors and nurses can send replens which is a moisturiser and helps sooo much! I haven’t suffered since starting it. Life has dealt us a *** hand but us women are so strong! Little bit of hot flush won’t take us out :-D xx