Terrified and need guidance

I have been diagnosed with Endometriosis on a 4+ scale, 4 fibroids (one situated near my bladder), an ovarian cyst, and polyp. I was told by a GYN that I need to have a hysterectomy. This GYN said that the surgery would entail removal of both ovaries due to the cyst. He said it would however throw me into full blown menopause for which he would perscribe Estrodial.

After obtaining a second opinion, another GYN advised my ovaries did not need removal, only the cyst in the ovary would be removed during the hysterectomy. However, this surgeon did say he would be removing my appendix (nothing is wrong with my appendix, but he recommended it by saying it could one day rupture and it serves no purpose).

All this scares me immensley! I am overwhelmed and feel very confused about the safety and finding the best surgeon in the Atlanta, Ga area.

Please ladies....help educate me!

Dove Dime

I would strongly recommend checking to see if you can find an endometriosis specialist. There are some in your area. You can also check www.suggestadoctor.com to look for a gynecological surgeon for a third opinion to help you determine what is best for you.

You need a very skilled and knowledgeable surgeon who would be able to remove the endometriosis and fibroids and save any organs that are not causing medical issues.

You will find that some doctors automatically want to remove the ovaries of women with endometriosis, though this is not necessarily if the ovaries are healthy and the surgeon can skillfully remove the endometriosis. Estrogen is the fuel for endo so some feel that removing our biggest source of it is the way to go, even though that same estrogen can be essential for our overall health.

You will also find that some want to automatically remove the appendix--though not as many these days--simply to save problems down the road. However, those same doctors aren't likely to automatically remove your gallbladder or one of your kidneys just to save future issues! For what it is worth, there are current studies stating that the appendix may actually serve a purpose and isn't in our body just to hang out!

Personally, my ovaries were saved, even following different types of cyst issues post hysterectomy, and my appendix was removed--it was ready to rupture from the endometriosis. My OB/GYN did my hysterectomy and he was unable to remove all of my endometriosis. Years later, after much pain and issues, I saw an endo specialist who was able to excise all the remaining endo, again saving my ovaries.

When it comes to endometriosis especially, there are no cut and dry, black and white answers. Some of it depends on your body. Some depends on the specific skill of the surgeon as far as the endometriosis.

As far as fibroids are concerned, there are ways to treat them without a hysterectomy. You might see if any of those options are available for you.

Keep in mind, neither a hysterectomy or oophorectomy are cures for endometriosis.

We do have an extensive Resource Database you may want to look through for more info on endo and fibroids!

Ask any questions you need to until you can determine what is right for you!

As a reminder, the names of physicians cannot be shared on the public boards.

Thank you so very much for taking the time to respond to me tonight.

I just joined this site and by virtue of your response, I feel not so alone.

My second opinion was with a surgical Endometriosis Specialist so it validates that I'm on the right path. Part of my fear stemms from lack of knowledge.

I am grateful for the knowledge you shared with me-thank you!!

I had TAH and choose to use a female doctor who strictly deals with Gyn issues... no obstetrics. Over the course of making the decision to have surgery she slowly helped me understand that it all had to go and helped me accept the decision... very good doctor. I am 3.5 weeks post-op and have no regrets and everyday feeling a little better. The choice of doctor is very personal... be sure to find one you trust. Best of luck!!

P.S. I had cysts on both ovaries, multiple large fibroids and adenomyosis; so everything really needed to go.

Cahhtyme,
Thank you so much for your reply. Having come out of your operation just 3 1/2 weeks ago with no regrets gives me hope!

I had da vinci hyst due to endo (stage 4). I had everything removed along with my appendix that they discovered was full of endometriosis. So...despite continued intestinal pain I am glad to have it all out. I am on a hormone patch to deal with the menopause but don't have any regrets. ;-) I think just doing what's best for you is the way to go. Regardless of the doc I always make my opinion known. They can't remove your organs without your consent. They can't do anything without your consent....stick to your guns!! ;-)

I had severe endometriosis, an enlarged uterus and a 16 cm cyst on my right ovary. I had a TAH/BSO on May 10th and I don't regret one minute of it. I'm on an estrogel and haven't had any menopause issues.