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Real members of MyEndometriosisTeam 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've decided to be put in to surgical menopause.

A MyEndometriosisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hunlock Creek, PA

Any words of wisdom on how to navigate life after ovary removal / surgical menopause. Scared of menopause when I have anxiety and ocd that flares worse when my hormones are low now aka period week. I'm hoping this will slowly shrink the bowel lesions at rectum and I can return to a normal life. I can't afford hormone suppression drugs and I dont want the bowel endo to worsen.

4 days ago
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Be the first to react
MyEndometriosisTeam

First, it takes real courage to make this decision, and it's completely understandable to feel scared. Your concerns about hormonal shifts affecting your anxiety are very valid — surgical menopause causes a sudden drop in estrogen, which can feel more intense than natural menopause.

Here are some things worth knowing and Show Full Answer

First, it takes real courage to make this decision, and it's completely understandable to feel scared. Your concerns about hormonal shifts affecting your anxiety are very valid — surgical menopause causes a sudden drop in estrogen, which can feel more intense than natural menopause.

Here are some things worth knowing and discussing with your doctor: Managing the hormone shift without medication:

- Ask your doctor about non-hormonal options for managing menopause symptoms, such as certain antidepressants that can help with both mood and hot flashes
- Regular gentle exercise can help with mood regulation and bone health
- Prioritizing sleep is especially important as surgical menopause can disrupt it
- Bone health becomes a real concern without estrogen, so ask about calcium and vitamin D supplements, which are generally affordable

Setting realistic expectations:

- Some MyEndometriosisTeam members have found significant relief after ovary removal, while others experienced some pain returning
- It may take time for lesions to respond, so patience with the process matters
- Keeping a symptom journal can help you track improvements and flag concerns for your doctor The anxiety piece is really worth raising directly with your surgical team before the procedure, so they can help create a monitoring plan for your mental wellbeing post-surgery. You deserve full support through this, not just the physical side.

4 days ago

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