Keeping ovaries and cervix?

Hello all again,

I have another question. I am 40 years old and will be having, not sure just when, a hysterectomy. I've decided to keep my ovaries and now I'm also debating if I am going to keep my cervix. I do not have cancer and it does not run in my family so I don't see why I cannot keep my cervix. I guess what kind of bothers me is that I have to make sure that I am in control of my situation. I will not jeapardize my life. If I have to have certain organs removed then so be it. But on the other hand, I cannot see having organs removed if they don't pose a risk. I just don't want the doctors taking something that don't need to be taken. I have fibroids, with the heavy bleeding and clotting. No too much of cramping. I would like to hear from anyone who has kept their ovaries and cervix or from anyone who can share their stories. Thanks,
Tamella

Hi Tamella,
I'll post some links about the cervix issue. One thing to remember is that women who keep cervix and at least one ovary can continue to have mini-periods each month. Here's some topics about the cervix. If you have a TVH-vaginal hysterectomy(no outside cuts or scars) the cervix has to go. A TAH- open abdominal surgery or LSH- laproscopic surgery is needed if you want to keep your cervix.

sex and the cervix
https://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/sho...threadid=89243

Keep cervix? Help me tell my dr.
https://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/sho...threadid=87209

No more periods Yea right!
https://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/sho...periods+cervix

Removal of cervix after continued bleeding
https://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/sho...threadid=78264

Thought I'd add some abbreviations here for you and their meaning. https://www.hystersisters.com/abbre.php

The word total can be confusing. The term hysterectomy refers to the removal of the uterus while removal of the ovaries are called oopherectomy. If you are have both the uterus and cervix removed it is called a total hysterectomy. When people keep the cervix it's called a supracervical, subtotal, or partial hysterectomy.

Hi there

I kept both ovaries as well as my cervix. I actually DO have a positive family history for cervical cancer - however, because of my age and the health of the cervix, and because of the physical difficulty in removing it when the surgeon was actually "in there", it stayed! (apparently my cervix is unusually elongated, together with a shorter-than-normal vagina...and, I was sort of bleeding out at the time...it made sense to get out as soon as he could).

My family history seems to be of little consequence at the moment - I still have regular paps and checks. However, if my cervix does become diseased, of course we'll have it taken out - even though I'd have a considerably shorter vaginal passage, there's no way I would risk my health.

My surgery was over 6 months ago, and I've never even seen a drop of blood - nothing, no mini (or micro!) periods. No other "premenstrual" symptoms, either....again, I think I'm very lucky in that context

Of course, the decision rests with you...the best thing you can do is just learn, do your research, and ask the questions. Get a second, and even third opinion. And don't let anyone pressure you either way

s and best wishes,

Tess