Extremely nervous about upcoming oophorectomy

Hello everyone. I came across this forum while doing research for an upcoming surgery.

I am 57 years old and am scheduled for a bilateral oophorectomy next week. In 2003 i had a hysterectomy and a couple of years later developed ovarian cysts that have never went away. I have had yearly ultrasounds and CA-125 blood tests as follow-ups. Back in December, my CA-125 was at 88 and now it has gone up to 103. Because of my age and possibly being postmenopausal (am now getting the odd flushing now and then) my OBGYN strongly recommends having my ovaries and cysts removed. I should mention that my mom had two breast cancers, so i am at risk for that.

I have been everywhere on the internet about ovarian preservation. There are so many negatives about having your ovaries removed and the need to continue getting the hormones that your ovaries produce even after menopause. The risk of dementia(my mom had Alzheimer's), osteoporisis, cardiac disease just to name a few. HRT is not an option for me.

I really need input from anyone who has been through this and how they feel years later. Did it make a difference in your overall health other than the hot flashes.

I wish I had not made the decision so quickly before doing all this research. It's terrifying what I am reading.

Thank-you for any information you can provide.

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