myomectomy or uterus only hysterectomy? also possible endometriosis

I am 31 years old, and diagnosed with at least 5 fibroids- the largest being 4 cm. I may also have endometriosis, but the doctor will not be able to tell that until he does a laparoscopy. My whole lower abdomen is in constant pain, and sometimes I get very sharp pain there. My pelvic area is in so much pain, that when I got a pelvic exam, I almost cried. I am so confused whether a myomectomy or only a uterus hysterectomy is better. I do not have any chidren, but have worked in childcare for over 10 years.my husband definately never wants children, but i might eventually, even if i adopt. I have read stories on here about fibroids returning after a myomectomy, so that scares me. I am also scared of scar tissue causing more pain or infections from that. With a hysterectomy, I am afraid that taking my uterus out will not help my endometriosis symptoms, if I do have it. I am also afraid of having sagging pelvic organs from it. If anyone has some input on these fears, please post something. I just wish I didn't have to make a decision- it would be easier if there was only one option. I have ruled out all the other alternatives, so I made some progress. I do want this done asap as I cannot do my daily activities as much anymore.Thanks!

Hi Amy. One of the main reasons I didn't want a hysterectomy was because I was afraid the endometriosis would continue to grow and cause adhesions that would stick my bladder and bowel together (with no uterus in between) and then I'd really have problems. I have pelvic pain, but it's no where near what you are suffering so I just treated the fibroid that was causing my heavy bleeding with UAE. I'm also 55 and know that, even though I still get my period, it must be close to being finished and the endo will resolve.

Have you looked into surgery with an endo specialist? There is a lot of great information on the endo-resolved website. It includes treatment options, women's stories and a list of specialists. It also discusses why hysterectomy is not an option. And you are way too young to have your ovaries removed. Look into having the lap done with a specialist, preferrably one who excises with a scalpel rather than burning the tissue (there is much less risk of adhesions that way).

Another option is to see a reproductive endocrinologist. They specialize it the removal of endo and fibroids in a way that best conserves the uterus for pregnancy. Even if you don't want kids, these doctors know how to reconstruct your uterus to minimize scarring and adhesions. The Asherman's Syndrome website has a list of recommended doctors. You can find our more about them on Yahoo's Asherman's group, too. I hope you find relief soon.

Amy:
I, too, had to decide between myomectomy and hysterectomy. I am 32 years old and never had children...I do have two step children who keep me plenty busy and honestly, I just have never had a desire to birth any. I have felt this way since I was about 13...and the older I get the more I know it just isn't for me.

At the same time, losing my uterus is a BIG step but after trying less invasive things like BCP and Ablation- the problems just keep getting worse.

My surgeon offered me a choice. However, due to the size and location of the fibroid and the way it is embedded in my uterine wall, myomectomy (in my case) would be extremely risky due to blood loss and my surgeon said she would ask one of her partners to assist as she wasn't comfortable with the surgery and risks herself. I did entertain that notion for a few days until I researched and realized I would be risking my life to save an organ which serves a purpose I don't need. Also, I learned that I could grow more fibroids and this 9cm one has given me enough trouble. I am scheduled for a LSH on May 24th.

I can understand the dilemma that you are facing as I wanted to try to preserve my uterus just to keep it! My advice? EDUCATE yourself on all risks of both surgeries. It is a big decision to make- take your time. I also found it helpful to talk to my mom and other women who had hysterectomies, and, of course, this site is wonderful. Try to get a second/third opinion with specialists.

All the best to you!