Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I am very opposed to taking the oral cancer meds and wondered if anyone here hasn’t taken the oral meds and to have their ovaries removed?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭

I was Er+, Pr+ HER2 negative. Oncotype score of 19. To have 20 radiation treatments and 5 years of oral meds.

May 25, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you so much. I have a Dexa Scan coming up soon, so my answer my be within the Dexa Scan results.

May 26, 2025
MyBCTeam

This is a very personal decision that should be discussed thoroughly with your oncology team. While some members have chosen different treatment paths, your specific diagnosis of ER+/PR+ breast cancer with an Oncotype score of 19 typically guides treatment recommendations.

Hormonal therapies like tamoxifen work by blocking Show Full Answer

This is a very personal decision that should be discussed thoroughly with your oncology team. While some members have chosen different treatment paths, your specific diagnosis of ER+/PR+ breast cancer with an Oncotype score of 19 typically guides treatment recommendations.

Hormonal therapies like tamoxifen work by blocking estrogen's effects, which is particularly important for ER+ breast cancer. Oophorectomy (ovary removal) is another way to reduce estrogen but has different implications and permanent effects on the body. Many MyBCTeam members have shared their experiences with both medication and surgical options. While oral medications can have side effects like dry mouth or other oral health impacts, these effects are often manageable with proper care and support from your healthcare team. The key is working closely with your doctors to understand the benefits and risks of each option for your specific situation.

May 25, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member: you need to make whatever decisions you feel are best for you. The thing to keep in mind is that estrogen is also produced elsewhere in the body (not just ovaries - ovaries are just the main hub), which is why they typically have you take a hormone blocker even if you have ovarian ablation or oophorectomy. I myself had my ovaries out and am still on a hormone blocker (an AI called exemestane to be specific). I've personally had no issues and feel fine, but again, you need to decide what's best for you.
The other thing to keep in mind with having your ovaries out (assuming you are pre-menopausal is bone density loss. I had my oophorectomy at 41 (I was already in osteopenia thanks to chemo) so I did 6 Zometa infusions (every 6 months for 3 years) to help strengthen/maintain my bone density.
Wishing you all the best in whatever you decide! 🩷🦄

May 25, 2025

Related Questions

View All

Would like to get input on Zometra

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
San Francisco, CA
April 12, 2014

Has anyone thought about hysterectomy ??

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Maple Grove, MN
February 16, 2015 (edited)

Should You Have Fibroadenomas Removed? When To Consider Breast Lump Surgery
I Was Supposed to Have a Baby, Not Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Spreading to the Bones: Pain and 5 Other Symptoms (Plus How To Treat)