New Information Today For Teacher4life

Sisters,

Those of you who have followed my story know how devastated I was that my hysterectomy was canceled, after pre-op, after two days of bowel prep and just 12 hours before I was to go on the table by a gynecologist who was my 5th opinion and who was totally in support of a hysterectomy in response to the problems I have endured for the past 18 years, or so I thought. You are also aware that I posted I was to go to a pelvic pain specialist for yet another opinion BEFORE an operation was to take place. Well, I went to the specialist today. His bedside manner was good, and he took the time to speak with me, which I appreciated. He also did one of the most thorough, yet excrutiating exams I have had to date, including looking around inside me with some sort of probe. Well, this doctor said that he thought a hysterectomy was a great idea; however, since there were "other contributory factors to my pain", he wanted to treat those with medications, continue with Lupron Depot injections since it was helping me, and if, when I return to him on August 6th, I am still doing as well as I am now or even better, then we will definitely schedule a new surgery date and go through with it. I do have endometriosis, and the specialist is also convinced that I have adenomyosis. I asked him how he knew without a laproscopic procedure, and he said that the probe has a light and a tiny camera on it that gave him a good look into my insides, and even the cervix was a "not-so-pleasing shade of black". He also did a pap today, which was normal, and I was thankful for that because I have had "abnormal" paps in the past. He believes that the Lupron shots should be not one per month, but a single shot that lasts for 3 months, so I don't experience the "elevation and deflation fatigue" as he calls it, the two days after the shot when my joints and muscles ache so bad I can't stand it. I also have intersistil cystitis, which he described as chronic inflammation and infection of the bladder wall. Although I have never heard of it, he said that it is quite common in patients he sees with unexplained chronic pelvic pain. I am on 300mg of Elmiron per day for that now. I start my first dose tomorrow, and it will be 6-8 weeks before I notice a difference, if it is going to help at all. The doctor also said that he would like me to see a psychiatrist to talk through my health issues and "learn to deal with them better" because he feels that I am showing signs of depression and anxiety at an "unhealthy" level, and a woman needs to be "more stable with her emotions about her health as she undergoes a hysterectomy". Not sure how I feel about this one. Don't get me wrong, I respect "most" psychiatrists, but seriously ladies, with all the crap I've been through and we have all gone through on this site, who wouldn't be a bit depressed, downtrodden, and sticking our head in the sand on occasion. I am going to give it a try though because the doctor said that his main concern was that the depression and anxiety could be hormonal, and I need to be on the right medication to counteract that. Guess I'll field your comments on that one sisters. Were any of you asked to see a psychiatrist, and if so, what were your thoughts, and did it help anyone? So, here's where I stand. A hysterectomy is "inevitable" per my doctor, but it is temporarily delayed until we can get the pain more under control with the Emiron pills, the continued higher dose of Lupron, and the psychiatric help. Then, if I return in August, and all systems are go, it's on the operating table for me. Just wanted you to know the latest and greatest. Any thoughts?

I have been reading, but not commenting as so many people have said what I have been thinking.
At least the Pain Specialist agrees with the Hysti. I also am not sure about the Psyc Dr. & agree with you, with all that you have had to put up with its only normal to be depressed & stressed.
At least go to one visit if you can & see what they have to say, You don't have to agree with them & although you 'talk' to us, sometimes a diferent perspective can help.

I know its still a waiting game for you, but hopefully after August 6th you will know where you stand

s to you

just curious how your new dr came up with a diagnosis of IC? Its only diagnosed through an in-hospital cystoscopy and even then unless you have 7 or more of the symptoms youre not considered as having this problem. Just telling you this because you really dont want to be labeled as having IC unless you truly do. I would think that with all of your other problems that your chorinc pelvic pain could easily be associated with one of them.
Just my thought.
Stay well
Diana

Hi teacher4life;
I just wanted to comment about the psychiatrist issue. My pain is for a different reason though but still pain none the less!
When my neurologist wanted to recommend me for a visit to a psychiatrist I was outraged! I totally flew off the handle about it and I couldn't believe my husband supported it! I accused them of not believing me about my pain and I thought they thought I was going crazy! Once I calmed down my husband explained to me the reason for a psych consult was because people that live in pain all the time are often depressed especially when no one can find a reason WHY we are in so much pain and medications don't help!
So, the treating doctor often recommends a psychiatrist. I chose not to go as I do not feel I am in any danger of harming myself. I may get a little depressed about my pain and wonder why me all the time but, I do not feel I will hurt myself over it. It is something I have come to live with. My pain medicines help mostly so I don't feel I need to see a psychiatrist.
Research things and decide what is best for you. If you have the means to see a psychiatrist and feel comfortable doing so then do. Who knows, I may change my mind but at this stage I doubt it.
Best wishes to you!

Hey teacher4life just a boost for you about the psych's it can really help talking to someone you don't know and who don't have the problems we all have in common..Can have a whole different perspective on things that we tend to overlook or haven't even thought of...Shop them if you have to get one you feel comfortable with and just let it all out...I felt like a new women although it wasn't from the hysta problems but I have been off and on every depression med possible..I'm off them now but some days I'm sure I should be back on them..And I'm sure my hubby and children would agree....

Just read the latest in your saga. I cannot believe all that you have been through. Especially since my doctors have all been ready, willing, and able to recommend hysterectomy. Guess that's the big difference between being in your 20's and in your 40's! :-)
Anyway, I don't really have any advice for you. Your story just touched my heart and I wanted you to know that you've been on my mind and on my prayer list.
Father is looking out for you, no matter how confused your journey gets. Just keep trusting His heart and you'll be fine in the end. Keep us posted.

A sister in the Lord,

Hi Teacher4life,

So glad to hear that the specialist backs your need for surgery.
As far as the psych goes, I would give it a visit. I have been through depression and it helped. Do make sure that you are comfortable with the psych before continuing. I saw one for a couple years even though I felt he wasn't helping. I ended up finding another who was wonderful and I only needed to see him for a few months to feel much better.

Hope this helps and I will continue to keep you in my prayers.

Judy