Nervous and scared LIW (long winded post)

I am scheduled for a SAH and MMK Bladder repair on August 1st. I had an ultrasound the end of May that found my uterus to have grown to 16 x 8.5 x 10.5 cm in size with multiple fibroids ranging in the 4 to 6 cm size. The report also stated that my endometrium was in poor condition due to the distortion of my uterus. My major issue is horrible periods that never end, my last one lasted two weeks, although the last few days was mostly a pinkish stain. I feel heavy and bloated with mild lower backache. I usually feel the most uncomfortable in the morning, probably due to the pressure that a full bladder puts on the uterus. I also have incontinence issues due to the pressure of my uterus sitting on top of my bladder.

I am so nervous about whether or not I am doing the right thing. Some days I am sure of it others not so sure. My GP referred me to her GYN collegue, whom after my examination did state that I was most likely looking at a hysterectomy. I had a scary period a few weeks ago with the heavy bleeding and the feeling of mild labor pains, I called her to express my concern, and all she did was prescribe me provera. I was scheduled for a D&C, hysteroscopy and endo biopsy. However, I scheduled an appointment with my former GYN that I had not seen in 5 years. He has delivered one of my children and has already performed a D&C to remove polyps that were causing heavy bleeding. When I gave him my ultrasound report, and after examining me, he thought that a SAH would be the best option. I canceled my D&C with the former doctor, I was not comfortable with her and feel that this procedure was a waste of time not to mention I don't want to go through general anesthesia multiple times.

I have been researching and feel that having a hysterectomy is the best option. I could pursue a myonectomy but feel that if I am going to have major abdomal surgery, I want it out not hacked to pieces. I have read of so many women that ended up with a hysterectomy eventually after having the myonmectomy anyway. I definately do not want to go through this type of surgery more than once.

I am so nervous and scared of how I am going to feel afterwards. I don't know what normal is anymore. I am having weird dreams about all of this. I am finding that some people are etremely supportive and others not so supportive questioning why I would have such an extreme procedure. Of course those questioning me don't know what I have been dealing with the past 6 months.

Sorry for this long post, and thanks to those who created this forum to give us a place to vent a little.

Dianne

Hi! It's normal to have doubts. I put off the inevitable for years....I tolerated a lot of wretched periods and pain...

We moved last year and I went to a new GYN and told her my two previous GYNs in the past 8 years told me I needed a hysterectomy for 12 or 13 years of problems. She did a hysteroscope, confirming at least one fibroid and enlarged uterus to 12-14 wk. size. Previously I had been told polypoid tissue.

She told me we could try medication (done that before--makes me feel like an axe murderer), myomectomy, or hysterectomy. She said the myomectomy would not necessarily stop the bleeding or the pain. That's when it became obvious that the answer was the hysterectomy. I figured if I was doing ANY surgery, I wanted the one with the best result. Then she said she'd try to do the LAVH and I knew that would be best for me.

I'm very pleased with the results and have been feeling great!

Mary W
Adenomyocis, fibroid, enlarged uterus, no endo this time (had it lasered out 8 yrs. ago)

Hi,

I think that making the decision to do this is the hardest part. I tossed this around for a while before the decision was pretty much taken out of my hands and even then I was still back and forth for a while.

Mostly I'm of the opinion that if it offends you long enough - get rid of it. Surgery is tough for a couple of weeks, but after that think of the relief you'll have. But of course, only you can make that choice.. I'm going next Monday, the 14th for my TAH.

I wish you well!

Dianne
Many of us fear this surgery and wonder what life will be like after. From my readings here and people I spoke to (I'm amazed how many people I know who have had hysters) I believe the majority are much happier. I have read here many times about the 'quality' of life being better. Not having to plan your life around your periods, pain, moods. I am 6 weeks (tomorrow) post op and I feel great. I did not have half the complaints I hear here and almost felt guilty having my hyster when there are so many who suffer so much more than I did. My periods were becomming erratic and after years of a perfect cycle it was very stressful for me.
I'm so sorry you are going through this. There are no guarantees you will feel better, but the odds are for it. HUGS.
Tricia

I believe the more you read here the better you will begin to feel.