Hi, I'm new to Hystersisters.

Hi. I'm new to this site. I am considering having a hysterectomy as I have fibroids which don't give me too much trouble; but a family history of ovarian and breast cancer. I just turned 50 and my kids are teenagers. My doctor is suggesting that I get genetic testing and also do a uterine biopsy before surgery. My biopsy is scheduled for July 9th. Doctor says it is not an emergency, but I have been considering this for some time now. Doctor says that if my uterus is benign, then he will do lap surgery and leave my cervix. I am wondering if I should just have him take it all. I don't like the idea of having my cervix removed if I don't have to. Just wondering what other's in my situation have done. Also, I am worried about getting the genetic testing. Don't really want to know if I carry the gene. I feel silly to say that, but it's the truth. Also, wondering about the insurance ramifications if I test positive. I am glad to have a place to talk about this. Thanks and blessings to all.

Hi there. My Mum died of ovarian & now my sister (51) has stage 3 ovarian cancer! I was tested and have the gene, I am glad I was tested. I decided to have everything removed. My LAVH went great & my mastectomy is next month. I couldn't live month to month worrying if I would be the next one to get cancer. I feel way more at ease now. Every time I talk to my poor sister, it reassures me I did the right thing. (I am almost 49)

Good luck to you.
Loren

Hi Dragonfly50, this site is great, i am glad you found it. You will have alot of support and well wishes. I am glad I found this site during my journey before the castle. Welcome and anything you have on your mind you can post here, even if it is to just vent some.

it sounds like your dr is suggesting the lsh. i had that and i cant say enough good things about it. i kept my cervix and ovaries. i had a very easy recovery and now 21 months later..i have no problems at all. deciding whether to keep your cervix is a very personal decision..i kept mine because it was healthy, i didnt want a vaginal cuff or the recovery from it, and i read alot about the cervix helping with future pelvic support (although you can read just as much that says it doesnt). i believe it does, so i kept it.
do lots of research..google all different terms..get comfortable with the surgery and once you have the knowledge, you'll be able to make an informed decision.
genetic testing is also a personal issue...whatever you decide will be right for you. good luck

Welcome to the site!! You definitely came to the right place for support and a world of informaiton!!!

Welcome to the site.

Hi Dragonfly50,

I was 46 when I had my LSH for (2) large fibroids. It is still one of the best things I ever did for my long term health.

On the cervix question...my Dr. told me in pre-op that 3% or less of women get cervical cancer. And I read on Hyster Sisters...that over 70% of that 3% also have a HPV. If you have had normal pap smears for years and your cervix is sturdy, it sounds like your Dr. feels you are a good candidate to keep the cervix. In pre-op, my Dr. told me that he felt the cervix helps with future pelvic support and with sex.

In the end..just do what is *best* for you. That is what is most important.

Sending best wishes~

Mary