I also had an Adrenalectomy about 2 years ago. I had very severe LOCAH and have 2 maternal cousins with Classical CAH. They have also had the Adrenalectomy. I have to say that treating my condition is somewhat more simplified since I have had the surgery. Very conservative doctors will most likely not even mention having this surgery done... and I was actually more proactive about asking my endo if I "could" have the surgery because my cousins have done so well with it. With all of the research on people who have had an Adrenalectomy the statistics have actually been very good, showing a HUGE percentage rate of people feeling better AFTER the surgery. Weight loss, hair loss, regular menstrual cycles, etc. have all been very successful after the surgery. I actually lost quite a bit of weight after my surgery and find it easier to lose weight (when I actually am being good and excercising, eating right, etc.) I had a huge problem with hair growth on my face and I was losing hair right at the front of my head. This has really gotten SOOOO much better. I still am having to shave, but this is only like once or twice a week. Before it was an everyday things, sometimes 2 times each day (morning and night). My hair (on my head) has even began to thicken and I can barely see a bald spot. Before the surgery this was a horrific thing for me to deal with. I felt so unfeminine. I feel much more relaxed (which must have to do with normal testosterone levels) and I just feel more like "a girl". Anyways, I wrote my story in one of the Newletters the CARES FOUNDATION puts out. I think you can go to their website and read past articles if you are interested in reading my whole story. So wanted to put in my 2 cents. I am thankful for this surgery, but I don’t believe it is the answer for everyone. It is a very individual thing because the severity of CAH is so broad.

Amy