New to board, need advice...

I was diagnosed with a cystocele about a month ago. I am scheduled for a hyst and a&p repairs on 10/31. Both of my Dr.'s suggested removing uterus if I was done with my family (which I am) but I want to call the Dr. and tell him to forget the uterus part. Won't recovery be worse? What's all this about a swollen stomach? I just had a baby 3 months ago and just got my stomach back to size. I am so uninformed. My Dr. mad a hyst. sound great but I don'' think so. Can anybody tell me something?

Angela

Hi angela,WELCOME
I just wanted to welcome you and give you a sorry I cant help you but the women here are GRRREAT! So stick around!

The jury is still out on that one, and it s a very personal choice. But I dont agree with your doc, Why would he want to remove anything he would not have to.? Everything of mine is staying that doesnt have to go..but it s ultimately your decision, and stick with this site, as we never lack for opinions. Sometimes I think these gals are more prepared and knowledgable than some of the doctors !!!!!

Hi Angela and welcome! It would be to your best interest to get a second opinion from a Urogynecologist. Gynecologists can do this procedure (cystocele repair), but this is definitely not their specialty. When I talked to my gynecologist about a rectocele repair he told me he could do it, but would rather recommend a very good Urogyn to me to do the procedure. There is really no reason to remove a healthy uterus even if you are finished having a family.

Hysterectomy is major surgery. Initial recovery is 6-8 weeks and healing continues for 6 months to a year. It is not something to jump into lightly. Do lots of research and become informed before you make your final decision. Sounds like you realize this would not be so simple.

Love and s

Angela,
I have no experience with the cystocele but I had my uterous removed 7 years ago. Did the Dr. say why he wanted to take it? Is there a risk of having to go back and remove it later? I personally didn't have any stomach problems after mine was removed. Of course there is going to be some swelling after any major surgery but usually it goes away as your recovery progresses. Ask as many questions as possible so you can make an informed decision. Good Luck!

Dear Angie,

Two years ago I rec'd the same diagnosis. Right away I told my doctor "no way"! I had heard only terrible things about hysterectomies - mood swings, sexual changes, etc. So, I had him just go in and do the rectocele. I also needed a cystocele. He did a burch (hiked my bladder up) and left my uterus. It was highly unusual. They always recommend a TH when you have prolapse - if you are young and healthy. If you are, say, 80, and not sexually active, there are other recommendations.

What happens is the cervex keeps dropping, until one day you look down and say, "what the hexx is that!". It's like having a penis. Mine would pop out all the time. On days it was "out" (I would keep pushing it in - but it wouldn't stay in) it was uncomfortable to walk.

So, if I had to do it again, I would have done it all. Somehow I didn't ask enough questions or wasn't paying attention.

Last wednesday, I had a tvh. It was prob. a lot easier having had the burch. My ovaries looked good, so he left them.

Wishing you the best of luck what ever course you decide to take! I wish I would have found this wonderful site two years ago, I know it will help you.