Seeking Advice: Young Premenopausal Woman Facing ER/PR+ Treatment

Caitlin, what else is it your going to lose too ? Your reconstructed breast ? Can I ask what type of reconstruction you had ? I'm so sorry your going through this at a young age .

I had a single skin/nipple sparing mastectomy with a saline implant. My surgeons did a beautiful job with perfect symmetry to native breast and I even have full ( slightly altered) sensation which was one thing that really worried me. I do not want to feel like a foreigner in my own body :(

Plus, we still wanted kids, and then meds to put me in medical induced menopause. So for me it feels like not only am I loosing my ability to have children but the remaining bit of my youth plus sexuality/ mutilation of my breast and side effects of drugs- as trade off not yo die. I was already really struggling emotionally before this now it feels like I’m clawing at the edge of the cliff just to get back to the dark place I was at before :(

I'm sorry you're going through this and are feeling like this. Ask for second opinions and do some research. You never know who or what you may find to help you. Don't give up and don't lose faith!

Have you done the oncotype test ? It would give you an idea about the recurring percentage for 9 years and the absolute benefit of adding another treatment

I just had surgery on 4/25. I believe my oncologist is going to order an oncotype. She said because this is a reoccurrence however that she doesn’t usually order one. So I’m not too sure. Obviously i don’t want chemo but i also want to be cancer free!

Hello I had to shut my reproductive organs down before I could get pregnant due to endometriosis back when I was in my 20s. Yes, There were some side effects- hot flashes, more intense mood swings comparable to PMS, and yes not what a 20 year old wanted to go thru. But we ended up with our three beautiful children. I know you have more on your plate to deal with but wanted to let you know as scary as it sounds, it doable. And if you can’t handle it then you ask your doctors to find other options. I’m currently back on lupron to again shut down everything stage 1 er/pr+ hr- lumpectomy 8/24. I will say this, in my 20s they made me do the depot shot 1 shot every 3/mos. This time I am going monthly and have very few side effects. I don’t know if it’s my age 48 or the delivery of the meds. Just something to think about. Good luck

I had er/pr+ stage 2 breast cancer at 33, premenopausal. Found out right when we were gearing up to have kids, so I totally get how you feel. I had a single masectomy, chemo with lupron injections (which protect your ovaries/fertility), and started hormone therapy. Hormone therapy was the worst for me. Only tolerated a year and a half before I needed a break (tried multiple different meds). My gut told me that the Hormone therapy was damaging my reproductive capabilities so i took a chance, got my my body right, and got pregnant. I now have a beautiful 6 month old and plan to revisit Hormone therapy once I finish breastfeeding. Right choice? Only time will tell. You need to do what's right for you. My frustration was feeling like I was constantly put in a one size fits all box for treatment, especially being younger where it seems like the research is just not there yet. My unsolicited advice, take a minute and truly think it through. I wish fear did make me rush into decisons in the beginning. Sending good vibes your way.

TN and Marry, your experiences give me hope that I can preserve my fertility as an oncologist just wants to do the standard treatment with all. Like you said, one size should not fit all. So we should be vigilant about our treatment, and what is not acceptable should be refused. Because it can occur after a complete treatment, too, so what's the difference. We should have faith and a positive mind that God will do best for all of US. Hugs to all

Caitlin, I do not know you or your specifics but please consider reframing then concept (it takes time ..and I am only beginning this journey but believe my age helps...) think No, you are saving You. You will just be a new you. We are all evolving with new knowledge and experiences regardless of this "C" situation...be you, and love you.

Look up Dr Corinne Menn on instagram She went through it young too and still had a child

Many community members have shared experiences with similar treatment decisions and understand how overwhelming this feels. Each person's treatment plan and side effects can vary significantly based on individual factors, so connecting with others who've been through comparable situations can provide valuable insights and emotional support. The feelings about treatment impacts are completely valid, and many have found it helpful to discuss concerns with their care team about timing, fertility preservation options, and managing side effects. This community has many members who've navigated similar paths and can offer both practical advice and encouragement during this challenging time.