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02-22-2003, 11:45 AM
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Guest
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Posts: 1
Hysterectomy: March 3rd, 2003
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Surgery on March 3rd - should I go all the way?
I love this site and registered immediately. You advice would be appreciated very much.
I'm 34 with 3 children (ages 6, 4 and newborn). During my post-delivery checkup, they felt a mass on my left ovary. Ultrasound showed a baseball-sized dermoid cyst on the left ovary.
In 1989, I had large dermoid cysts removed from both ovaries, leaving 1/4th of the right ovary and 2/3rds of the left ovary.
In the recent ultrasound, the very small right ovary is almost undetectable. My Gyn Dr. said that he would try to leave some of the left ovary, and pictures show that as much as 1/4 could remain after cyst removal - but he may have to remove it all. He also commented that if the right ovary looks unhealthy, he will remove it also.
My doctor did not introduce a hysterectomy until we asked: "what if there is not enough ovary tissue to regulate hormone levels?"
He replied that if both ovaries are removed, there is no sense in leaving a uterus or cervix - though I have no history of uterine problems. My husband and I are content with three children - the doctor did not want to suggest sterility unless we were sure.
So, the QUESTION is: If the doctor can leave some ovary tissue, at age 34, is that the way to go? Dermoids come back in some cases. Or, should I tell him that unless he finds plenty of healthy ovary, to proceed with a hysterectomy?
I've read many postings on hormone balance issues, etc. I look forward to your thoughts - I have a week to decide!
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