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Prophylactic oophorectomy after treatment?

Page last modified on: October 7, 2008
Question from KC: My ob-gyn doctor has suggested that I have a prophylactic oophorectomy. I completed treatment—lumpectomy, chemo and radiation—two years ago for Stage III breast cancer (six positive nodes). The chemo put me into instant menopause at age 47, and I've been on Aromasin for nearly two years. I have no family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer. I am concerned about possible ill effects on my heart, bones, and loss of male hormone production. What is your opinion?
Answer —Lynn Hartmann, M.D.: In general we consider prophylactic oophorectomy in women whose risk of ovarian cancer is significant, such as those who are BRCA carriers or those who have a strong family history of breast cancer, with or without ovarian cancer. In your particular situation, this does not seem to be the case.

Or in other younger women who've had breast cancer, we may remove the ovaries to cut down the ovaries' production of estrogen. Since you have already gone through menopause with your chemotherapy, your ovaries are not making much estrogen. I think that you should discuss the rationale for having your ovaries removed with your oncologist in addition to your gynecologist.

On Wednesday, February 15, 2006, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Risk Reduction. Lynn C. Hartmann, M.D. and moderator Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. answered your questions about a variety of topics such as screening with mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds; breast biopsies; lifestyle changes that make a difference; and making hard decisions about prophylactic surgeries.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Lynn C. Hartmann, M.D.Lynn Hartmann, M.D. is a professor of oncology at the Mayo Clinic and associate director for education of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center.

Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a general surgeon. Her clinical practice is located at Holy Redeemer Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center.

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