bleeding post menopause now hysterectomy???

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I had chemotherapy 8 years ago which put me on the menopausal rollercoaster. It has come and gone more times than I can count in the last 8 years. Two years ago I was scheduled for a hysterectomy, then sustained injuries from a fall (which took 2 surgeries and one more to go). Not long after my accident I stopped menstruating (yet again), and months later went into full blown, 500 degree hot flashes that occured every 3-5 minutes for a year. Needless to say, all my pelvic problems seemed to go away. Little did I know, when the hot flashes subsided, my pelvic problems came out of retirement for an encore...but worse.

Now I'm scheduled for a hysterectomy next week. My pre-op is Friday and my DH and I will meet with the DR at that time. I'm trying to find out as much info as I can from the HysterSisters (who are a Godsend). This might be a silly question, but am I going to experience menopause AGAIN after the hysterectomy? I hope not.

The DR said it was not a good sign to have bleeding after menopause. The current ultrasound showed fibroids and cysts and I had problems with endometriosis in the past. The biopsy was excrutiating and I've had them in the past (with same DR) without any problems.

Any ideas, suggestions or similar situations?

Thanks, I'm blessed to have found all of you!

Hi, it sounds like you've more than your share of problems

I was menopausal when I had my hyst 2 years ago. I did go through a fairly intense "surgical" menopause afterwards. But, not everyone does. I'll be praying that you're spared that.

You can get a good list of pre op questions click here here. I printed it, added any extra that I had and took it with me to my pre op appointment. It helped me a lot - I tend to be forgetful when I'm stressed

best wishes.

s

I appreciate your response. Everyone on this website is so caring and giving of their time and experiences .

The list you suggested is great! I printed it and will add any other questions that come up. I feel like I'm on sensory overload and it helps to vent. Reading all the different threads has been so helpful.

Thanks again for sharing,

I had abnormal, post menapausal bleeding and ended up having a biopsy which revealed an early endometrial cancer. At first, my doctor felt it was just that last gasp period...she did a blood test and it showed I'd already hit the magic mark. As she felt that I'd already suffered through the annoying menapausal symptoms..hot flashes, sleep problems, mood changes etc. My doc felt I would not have any "surgical menapause" problems. I didn't. I had a few night sweats after but I think it was more the pain meds and leftover anysthesia. I would think you'll be ok. Have you talked about HRT? for me it wasn't an option but you may want to ask about that. They can start you on it in the hospital. It's a good thing you are getting this taken care of. Post menapausal bleeding is often a symptom of endo cancer. When caught early, the surgery is all that's needed. Make sure to have a good gyn. If you suspect cancer at all.. get a gyn/onc to do the surgery.

Hi Josie,

Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I certainly hope I don't have to relive yet another menopause. I feel as if I've had enough hot flashes to last at least 8 lifetimes. Yuck!

HRT isn't an option for me either because I had breast cancer and my hormone receptors were/are positive. So HRT would be like pouring gasoline on a fire. So back to the drawing board. I guess I'll just deal with it if and/or when it happens.

I was getting so nervous as the surgery was getting closer, but because of what you went through, with the early endometrial cancer, I can't wait for them to take it out.

It's amazing how supportive everyone is. It's like making friends with tons of women that understand. How awesome!

Thanks for your friendship