Nervous In Arkansas-surgery July 17

I had made my decision 2 weeks ago and was very certain about it. Now I am freaking out!! I am 33 years old and have already have precancerous cells removed several years ago. The past couple of years my periods have become more and more painful, now to the point of almost unbearable. Two months ago I bleed for almost 4 weeks then I haven't have a period since then-just the pain and the SEVERE PMS!! I had a pap smear and everything came back normal, but my regular doctor suggested I see a gyno and discuss a hysterectomy for the pain. She said I was too tender to the exam. I did follow up with a gyno and after a quick exam he said I had given him all the symtoms of endo and if it was causing me that much pain it was certainly something to consider. I have 2 beautiful daughters and had thought about the possibility of another child but my husband is happy with the way it is. So I said go ahead and set me up then. BUT that was 2 weeks ago and now I am freaking out!! I don't know if I want everything removed!! He has my preop scheduled 2 days before surgery so I am worried that I won't have the time to talk to him and make a decision that I am comfortable with. I AM DRIVING MYSELF NUTS!!

A hysterectomy is a major surgery and the thought of it can do a number on our nerves!

I would suggest getting the opinion of at least one other GYN before proceeding. This way you can know for sure that a hyst is right for you and/or another GYN could offer you some alternative treatment options. If endometriosis is suggested, then you might want to consider an endometriosis specialist. I wish I had seen one years ago!

There is no cure for endometriosis so you do want to be knowledgeable about this condition and you want the best doctor you can find. We do have several Endometriosis Resources you can read through and you are welcome to ask any endo specific questions in our Endometriosis Support forum.

You also want to consider whether or not you will have your ovaries removed and if so how you will treat surgical menopause. Estrogen can allow any left behind endometriosis to grow and spread, however, estrogen is also benefitial for our heart, bones, skin, eyes, libido, and more.

I would hesitate to have surgery when you are so freaked out. You want to be sure you have weighed all the pros and cons for you and that a hysterectomy is your best treatment option.

Talk to your doctors some more, seek a second opinion, consult with an endo specialist if you can, talk to your support group -- DH, family, friends, research, and then do what is best for you! S