Possible Hyster and Scared

Hi Sisters,
I've posted in new members, but Ithought I'd better go right to the pre op source. Here's the story. I'll be 50 this year and have had problems with irregular bleeding for oh so long. After different trials of different amounts of hormones, it seems to work for only 3-4 months, then the irregularity starts. I dont have heavy periods or pain. I do have a problem with generalized anxiety (taking meds for this) which doesn't make the "change" any easier. I'm taking Cenestin and Progesterone. Saw Dr. today, had an ultrasound and endometrial biopsy. The biopsy should be back in a week, but i have just KNOW he's going to suggest a hysterectomy. So, i'm trying to prepare mentally and physically. I would imagine it would be total (ovaries and all...who need em at this age) and will be on estrogen.

Any suggestions to get my mind organized??

Thanks a bunch

Carol

Carol,

I am 46 and I can understand your anxiety.

Please just remember...a hyst is not the end of the world. It can feel like it if you are given the news you need one. I experienced that.

And, being almost 10 weeks post op, I can say the quality of my life has improved so much since my surgery.

And, just remember...you make the final decision. Not your Dr. Possibly get a 2nd or 3rd opinion. Maybe there is another alternative than a hyst available to you??

Many Hyster Sisters get more than one opinion. I got two opinions myself. It only adds to your hyst information so you can make a good choice for yourself.

Good Luck!!

Hi there, and welcome. Our situations are very different, but do have just one pointer I would like to suggest. Once you accept the decission that a hysterectomy is the best choice for you, you need to just become as informed as possible. That is what I did, and although I still had some fear, I felt alot more comforatable about what I went through. I am 4 days post op, and still feel pretty comforatable about my decision. Good luck, and I hope you get some good advice on here! Diana

Carol,

You have come to the right place - you can vent here, and there is always someone who understands what you're going through, no matter what your individual issues are.

Votelady is right - the choice is ultimately yours, so if you're not sure, by all means get a second opinion, and try to get as well informed as you can. Also, there are many different variations on the procedure, so don't assume anything until you talk to your doctor. I was convinced that my doctor would want to remove both my ovaries because I have endometriosis. Then I talked to her and she told me she thought I should keep one, which made the decision much easier. The main thing is to ask a lot of questions, and make sure the doctor takes your concerns into account.

For what it's worth, my mother, aunt and cousin, as well as several friends, have all had hysts and have seen their quality of life improve greatly.

Good luck!

Best,

Leslie