These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Sandra, age 35:I am from one of those families with lots of cancer—including ovarian cancer—in parents, aunts, and cousins. It was a hard decision to have my ovaries removed, but it was logical for me. I did a lot of research before I made the decision, and now I just feel safer.

Keiko, age 40:I had my ovaries removed last year because I have a very strong family history of breast and ovarian cancer. I wish I had thought more ahead of time about what can happen when your ovaries are gone. I went into menopause at age 40 and have had a pretty miserable time of it. I seem to have all the worst symptoms of menopause: hot flashes, mood changes, night sweats, and loss of sex drive.

Dee, age 28:I have a couple of relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, but I'm not going to have my ovaries removed. Surgery seems like too drastic a step. I would rather take my chances and hope that cancer is not in the cards for me. I know some people couldn't live with the "threat" of cancer hanging over them, but I'm OK with it.

Amaia, age 31:I have had genetic testing and am BRCA positive, so my risk for ovarian cancer is very high. I had my ovaries removed because I want to do everything I can possibly do to keep from getting the cancer that runs in my family.

Salma, age 27:My grandmother died of ovarian cancer, and I have a cousin who was just diagnosed with breast cancer. I thought that meant that I was definitely going to get one or both cancers. But I talked to my doctor and found out it's not a definite thing. I don't want to have my ovaries removed, but I am going to have regular checkups and testing. And I have started to take birth control pills too.