Very frustrated about what to do

I am a 30year old mother of three lovely daughters. I got my tubes tied around 7 years ago. Ever since I have I have had nothing but problems. I have been dealing with ovarian cysts on both ovaries and also am looking at another surgery for severe dysplasia. They have been giving me high doses of birth control pills to regulate my cysts, however they make me very irritable and my moods can be very irratic. I am in alot of pain with these cysts. I am contemplating opting for a hysterectomy. They say I am too young and that it will set me right into menopause. The way I look at is why suffer in pain for another 10 years and then have to go through it. Why not just take my chances and get it done now. I need some advice.

Hi Sciana and welcome

Do you have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or just painful functional ovarian cysts? I ask because PCOS can include a host of other symptoms too. I'm providing a link to a list of resources located at the top of this forum. If you scroll down, you'll see some links to information on PCOS and there are additional links to a full list of Resources we have compiled in our Resources forum.

Link to Resource List

Yes, age 30 is young for a hysterectomy but you'll find that we have quite a few gals here your age and younger who have had hysts so it's not unheard of at your age.

Has your gyn suggested that your uterus and both ovaries be removed because of the cysts? If so, then you would be in surgical menopause (with no ovaries) and would have to evaluate your options concerning HRT. For some gals, after a hyst and ovary removal they are able to regulate their hormones with HRT and feel much better than before surgery. However, some gals have a great deal of trouble finding the right dose of HRT and others find that they cannot take hormones at all because of health risks or other issues.

Have you consulted with another gyn to get a second opinion? It's always a good idea to get at least two opinions before making a final decision about major surgery. I encourage you to keep researching and asking questions. We'll do our best to provide support, whatever you decide about treatment.

Please keep us posted on how you are doing and what you decide. Sending hugs your way.

Beth

Thank you Beth your information was very helpful. I had an appointment with my doctor yesterday and we scheduled a Vaginal Hysterectomy on Janurary 15th. He is going to leave my ovaries and take the uterus and cervix.

No I have never been diagnosed with polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Thank you very much again. I cannot tell you how helpful this site has been to me.

I will keep you posted.

Shawna

Hi Shawna,

It sounds like you and your doctor agreed that a hyst was the right choice for you at this time. I'm sure the dysplasia was a big consideration for you. January 15th is not all that far away, so I hope you are getting organized.

Wishing you a complication-free surgery and an end to pain. Please keep us posted on how you are doing.

Beth

Dear Sciana,
I am older than you (48), but after suffering more than a year with constant pain, cramping, and bleeding, and taking birth control pills every day to stop the hemorrhaging, I just couldn't take it any longer. I told my doctor over the summer I had had it and wanted my hysterectomy. It was my decision. He told me if I could stand the constant bleeding, etc., he would understand, and he would treat me as best he could. I can't tell you what a wonderful decision I made. It will be 12 weeks tomorrow, and I don't miss the bleeding, etc., one bit. I didn't want any more children, so that wasn't a problem. I don't know if that is part of your decision making. You should decide when you are ready instead of someone else making your decision for you. Good luck.
Sheree, Tarzana, CA