Thread: Oopherectomy? Hysterectomy? Neither?

I found out a week ago that my grandmother has ovarian cancer. My other grandmother died in 2006 from colon cancer, her sister also died of cancer many years ago (not sure what kind), and my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007 (he's a survivor)...

Basically, I feel like I'm screwed. My genes clearly aren't helping me out, so I've been thinking about talking to my doctor about an oophorectomy or even a hysterectomy. I know this may just be me panicking, but I am terrified of getting cancer. I dread going to the doctor because I'm so sure she's going to give me bad news. Now I know there's an obvious possibility of getting other types of cancer, but if I can stop at least any reproductive types of cancer from developing, I think I would do it. I'm only 23, and this sounds insane to me, but I am deathly afraid of the big c. I've thought about some of the consequences I'd have to live with:
1. Not being able to have children - which I am completely ok with
2. Decreased sex drive
3. Soreness/Pain
4. Early Menopause
And all except #1 scare me. I just feel like cancer is this big monster that no one can control and it's eventually going to come for me.

Am I crazy? Overreacting?

Any facts/opinions/comments/personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks!

Yes, you have that genetic predetermination to develop such, but does that mean you should undergo such procedure if it's unnecessary NOW? NO!

Chill out. You're young. You are indeed overreacting and that creates stress which would hasten whatever you've "convinced" yourself of having. Think healthy instead. Develop a good healthy lifestyle and think more positively. All people would reach their end in one way or the other, we'll never know. Live your life to the fullest and just be. Worrying won't do you any good.

Preventive measures would do a tremendous job. If you are really worried, consult a doctor and share your concerns. But please erase those negative preconceptions.