LAVH: Upcoming hysterectomy: keep cervix or not?

I am wanting to know PRO'S and CON'S to keeping the cervix or not. I am on the fence and need to decide which way to go by May 5th. I know everyone is different but would like to hear from both sides. Thanks =)

I am against keeping it,because of possible cancer later.I had a complete abdominal hysterectomy due to cancer

Chris

My cervix was removed along with the rest of my uterus. I don't miss it even a little bit. I didn't know it, but it was covered in endometriosis, so sex was painful. I now enjoy sex. There is no consensus among doctors whether the cervix does anything to prevent prolapse. Some women miss the bumping sensations during sex, so if you enjoy that sensation, you may consider keeping it. It has nothing to do with sex drive, vaginal dryness, or anything of that sort, so you don't have to consider that. However if you do keep it and it causes problems, the surgery to remove it isn't nearly as bad as a hysterectomy. It is a very personal decision each woman has to make. We do have a couple short articles on the subject:

Hysterectomy, Cervix, and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Hysterectomy and Cervix - Should I keep it.

I wish you no matter what you decide.

I have endo and suspected adeno. I have elected to remove my cervix.

Adeno can be left in the cervix, and if it stays you run the risk of mini periods. I have had enough bleeding to last a lifetime! I also don't want to deal with paps anymore.

I talked to my doc about prolapse after cervix removal. He said they take the ligaments that hold the uterus in place and attach to the top of the vagina. This creates the vaginal cuff. He told me the risk of prolapse after this is done, is the same risk if you were to have a vaginal delivery (which I have).

So, I feel pretty safe taking it out. If DH hits my cervix during sex I am in quite a bit of pain.

Hello - Im not keeping mine.. Mine has been a pain in the rump to me for quite some time so for me, its an easy decision to have them take.. as well as uterus and tubes.

When is your surgery scheduled for ? Mine is for May 5th..

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Justachicky Hello - Im not keeping mine.. Mine has been a pain in the rump to me for quite some time so for me, its an easy decision to have them take.. as well as uterus and tubes. When is your surgery scheduled for ? Mine is for May 5th..

Mine is for May 5th as well. I may keep mine only for the fact that I will have a little more support down there (as I am researching) because I have disabled daughter who is 75 lbs that needs total care and I lift her on a daily basis. Thanks for your input and wish you a speedy recovery =)

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Brittboo Mine is for May 5th as well. I may keep mine only for the fact that I will have a little more support down there (as I am researching) because I have disabled daughter who is 75 lbs that needs total care and I lift her on a daily basis. Thanks for your input and wish you a speedy recovery =)

Hi,
Can I ask why you are having a hysterectomy? The answer to that often dictates whether you should remove the cervix, or go with a partial hysterectomy.

Merr

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Brittboo Mine is for May 5th as well. I may keep mine only for the fact that I will have a little more support down there (as I am researching) because I have disabled daughter who is 75 lbs that needs total care and I lift her on a daily basis. Thanks for your input and wish you a speedy recovery =)

Im no doctor obviously but either way you wont be able to lift her for quite a while. Do you by chance have family / friends/ nursing care to help take care of her while you recover ?

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Merr Hi, Can I ask why you are having a hysterectomy? The answer to that often dictates whether you should remove the cervix, or go with a partial hysterectomy. Merr

I have a large fibroid pressing on my bladder as well as an ovarian cyst both causing me a lot of trouble. My doc told me that the decision was mine to keep the cervix or not. If I choose to keep it and he sees something wrong he will take it out as well.

I had mine removed along with my uterus. I didn't have any issues with it before. It's my understanding that if you keep it then you may have mini periods. I had this surgery because I was severely anemic, had heavy bleeding & severe cramping. So I don't want any period at all. Good luck with your decision & surgery.