Hello, new to hyster sisters!

Hello everyone, I'm so glad I found this website. I've been a member for a few days and have did alot of reading which has eased my fears some. I found out today that I will have a TAH on Jan. 3, due to an enlarged uterus, heavy periods and pain. This was the earliest surgery date he had open, and I was disappointed that I will have to wait that long. I guess I should look at the bright side and say that it is less than two months until it is over. He said that it was up to me whether I had my ovaries removed, but considering that I am 42 years old he recommended that I go ahead and have both removed. I still haven't decided yet, anyone have their own experiences that they'd like to share to help with my decision? I know everyone is different, but I'd still like to hear from others. I'm not really scared about the surgery, I'm just worried about the other side and how well I will do with recovery and how my body will react to it all. If anyone has had the same problems (enlarged uterus, heavy bleeding) and had a TAH and has any advice, I'd love to hear from you. Thanks!

Hi...I had the same problems as you but with adenomyosis and they found endo when they opened me up. My hyst was totally voluntary...I couldn't stand the bleeding, horrible pain, clots...etc...that I had all the time. I had mine at 43...and am on Estrace 2 mg. (which is bio-identical), exactly what our ovaries made...and it is the BEST thing I have ever done! I still can't believe I will NEVER have a period again! It's hard to believe...even after 17 months! I told my gyno to remove everything...I didn't want to deal with possible surgery again later. I hope you do great with your surgery too! This is the BEST website in the world!

Hi

Welcome to HysterSisters! There is tons of information, advice, support, and s when you need them.

A lot of members may think the PreOp forum is all there is, but this site offers so much more! You can find answers to almost any question you have, just by spending some time reading.

Check out the PreOp Hints and Articles (click here) which has lists of questions for your DR, previous discussions about topics such as whether to keep the ovaries and/or cervix, suggestions of things to take to the hospital with you, and lots more!

Also the PostOp Articles (click here) has lots of good advice about your recovery.

Princess Stories (click here) are just that - chronicles of the journey leading to the decision to have a hyst, the hospital experience, and recovery.

There is also an awesome resource link directory you can get to by clicking here or click Resources at the top of each page. You can find almost anything relating to hysterectomies, surgery, hormones, diagnoses, books, the list goes on and on. Check it out!

Please be sure to read the info New Here? which can also be accessed from the top of every screen, for important information to help you get the most out of this site.

Read and research as much as possible to help you, in conjunction with your DR, make the best decisions for you.

Best wishes!

Hi Keeperofhome.

I had a LSH due to large fibroids.

At 46, I decided to keep my ovaries. My Dr. said my ovaries were healthy and ovarian cancer does not run in my family so he left the decision up to me.

I wanted to go through natural menopause, if I was a candidate. My mom went through it at 51. I read on H.S. that the ovaries secrete hormones that help with the bones, skin and hair.

If you choose ovary removal, I can suggest that you check with your Dr. about surgical menopause and the possibility of HRT or alternative methods.

Best wishes,

Mary