Praying for menopause

I have had heavy periods and moderate pain from endometrial hyperplasia and fibroids for the last 18 months. I had a D & C with a polyp removed and the periods became even heavier. My GYN recommends a hysterectomy and I had a second opinion today from another GYN who agreed that would be the best option. I am 51, though, and keep thinking menopause MUST be around the corner and these problems should get better then. I'd certainly like to avoid surgery, if possible. The second GYN said "well, you could be one of the women who has periods to age 55 or so, though." I certainly don't want to struggle with this for 4 more years. I am currently on BC pills trying to minimize the bleeding until I can make a decision (have tenatively planned to try to hold out until April when I can take time off work for recovery). Anyone else who has been in a similar situation age-wise?

Thanks for taking time to answer.

Minnow:

Have you looked into ablation? The different types can be a way to eliminate the hyperplasia, without going all the way to surgery. I can well sympathize with your desire to wait and hopefully avoid the surgery, but you do have to keep an eye on your blood counts so you don't get too anemic with all the bleeding!

Getting a second opinion, particularly if you're dealing with hyperplasia, is an excellent idea as well. Ablation is permanent, too, but not nearly as difficult a recovery and it does work for a number of women.



Audrey

Dear minnowpaws:

Audrey gave you great advice about a 2nd or 3rd opinion. You can also find links to more info in our Resources Forum: http://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/for...daysprune=1000

Only YOU must live with your pre-op symptoms AND your post-op results, good OR bad. Get smart about your symptoms and your options, and make the best choice for YOU.

I am sending huge cyberhugs