Abdominal Hysterectomy - TAH/BSO Prophylactic - GailF's Story

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Abdominal Hysterectomy - TAH/BSO Prophylactic - GailF's Story

Abdominal Hysterectomy - TAH/BSO Prophylactic - GailF's Story

Date : 08-07-2001 - 02:13 PM - Readers : 3810

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Hi- I'm 51 years old and my 46-year-old sister was diagnosed with Stage III ovarian cancer in Dec.

Actually, she had primary peritoneal cancer (pelvic lining- related to ovarian cancer), which complicates the matter. She was very healthy with no other medical problems, but felt bloated and did not feel relieved after bowel movements. She had a complete abdominal surgery and underwent chemo. She is doing well now, but needs to undergo a second-look laparoscopic procedure, and be checked very often!

Her doctors recommended that I have my ovaries removed since I was over 50 and finished with my childbearing. I went to my OB/GYN and he sent me to a GYN/Oncologist. They also recommended ovary removal. They also said that the uterus is the most common cause of female problems, so I should have that out, too.

It was a very difficult decision. I am healthy and had no gyn problems. I was in peri-menopause.

I, also, had a good friend who died last year, at age 52, from ovarian cancer. Her mother and sister had ovarian cancer, too.

Obviously, she should have had a prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy hysterectomy (tubes, ovaries, uterus) to save her life. Because of her death, and my sister's illness and other family history, I felt that I really didn't have a choice. I didn't want to be sorry in a few years.

My surgery was 2 weeks ago. I had my ovaries, tubes, and uterus removed. They don't remove peritoneums- we need it! I have a 2 1/2 inch vertical scar- below my bikini line. Not too bad. I only stayed in the hospital 2 nights.

I went on HRT right away. And I feel fine!

Unfortunately, I still have to worry about peritoneal cancer and there isn't a good test. I will have the CA-125 every 6 months. There is a movement now to encourage all women to have the CA-125 blood test as a yearly screening- like a mammogram.

Apparently it isn't that accurate, but it's all they have for ovarian/peritoneal cancer.

If you have any questions, I would be happy to reply. ~Gail

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