BSO via TLH? and injury/healing with LAVH?

Good morning ladies,

I’m new here, and although I’m learning so much from you all, I don’t know all of the protocols yet.

I am scheduled for a prophylactic hysterectomy and BSO on Dec. 12, for HNPCC/Lynch Syndrome. When I met with my ob/gyn, whom I love and trust and have been working with for 9 years, she gave me the options of TAH or LAVH.

However, after doing some online research, I’m wondering about a TLH. How easily can a BSO be accomplished through that route?

I don’t know if she’s just not comfortable with that surgery or if there are other reasons to not do it. My uterus is not enlarged and my ovaries are normal.

My biggest concerns with the LAVH, are potential damage to the vaginal vault, perineum, and bladder of course. I’ve had prior vaginal damage that took excessively long to heal (9 months for stitches). Sex can be painful and we have to position carefully away from the perineum. So I’m obviously worried about maintaining sexual function—and enjoyment—and not experiencing more vaginal trauma. Any thoughts from sisters who had any type of vaginal involvement during their hysterectomies, who also had prior vaginal injury, sensitivity, biopsies, etc.?

I’ve learned so much already from reading your posts. Thank you for helping me know what to expect from this surgery and allaying some of my fears. I am encouraged by so many of you who’ve shared your positive experiences.

Thanks.

Seaside Dreaming,

Welcome to Hystersisters! I had a TLH/BSO nearly 11 months ago, so I know it can be done! I had the incision in my belly button, an incision each on either side of my belly button (about the size of a fingernail) and the same sized incision close to the pubic area on the left-hand side.

I had no complications (of course, everyone's different). The surgery and recovery was easier than I thought it would be. Looking back, I can honestly say the waiting (and bowel prep!) was the worst part.

Best wishes with your surgery and recovery.

Charlotte

Dear Charlotte,

Thanks for your encouraging words.

Did you have your surgery at a large medical center? With a real doc (vs. robot)?

I am in a small town/rural area and am wondering if just doesn't have that experience??? I see her this Wed., and will definitely ask then.

As for the bowel prep, I've been having annual colonoscopies with the same prep for 6 years, so I've got a whole system worked out for that

Thanks again for sharing your story.

Take care,
Angela

Angela,

I had my surgery at the hospital in the town in which I reside. It is not a large hospital, but not small either (makes sense, huh?) My surgery was not done via robot. The doctor, who is the only one in this area that specializes in TLH, did the surgery.

I'll be thinking of you and praying for you on the 12th. Let us know how you are doing when you feel up to it.

Charlotte