Scared out of my mind

Good morning Sisters,

I'm scheduled for surgery on Feb.4th. I went for my pre-op on the 28th. I was told that i need a total hysterectomy. This has put me in a severe mental schock. I now will need hormone replacement. I really don't understand that and what it means for me. I'm so scared until I'm thinking of not going thru with the surgery. I have HPV, right cyst on my ovary and hold slu of fibroids.

I've had so many painful periods until I wished to have a baby instead. I know having the hysterectomy may be the best thing to do because of my history with abnormal paps, bleeding like crazy each month and pain all over my body. I'm very scared will someone please advise!!!!!!!!!!!

The news that a hysterectomy was needed does sometimes come as a big shock. It is major surgery but it can make a big improvement in your health and quality of life.

Did you talk to your doctor about alternatives to a hysterectomy? Keep on asking questions until you think you have enough information to make a wise decision. If you are not satisfied with your doctor's explanations and/or if they do not make sense, it may be wise to seek another doctor's opinion. Bringing a list of questions and taking another person with you to the appointment is helpful because it may be difficult for you to remember everything.

what was the reason your dr wants to removed your ovaries and start you on hormone replacement?

It's funny how fear can make us say something like, I'm thinking of not doing this, when you are so obviously needing it and really don't have a choice. I was in therapy at the time I had my hyst. and I am so glad I was. It helped me so much with the fear. Do some reading to educate yourself, like on this site (articles and posts.) But be sure they are positive posts. Don't scare yourself further.;

Kara

I also had some abnormal paps and severe and constant pain due to fibroids. When my previous gynecologist and I first began discussing the possibility of a hysterectomy two years ago, I was terrified and overwhelmed. It took me two full years to wrap my brain around the idea, although by the time I got there, it was very much my decision and I was very comfortable and confident that it was the right thing for me.

Although your surgery is coming up soon, please ask lots of questions until you fully understand why this is the best option for you. Is there a reason it needs to be done so soon? If you can postpone it for a few months without damaging your health so you have a better chance of understanding and coming to terms with it, that might give you some peace of mind.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by janessa12 Good morning Sisters, ... abnormal paps, bleeding like crazy each month and pain all over my body.

Frankly, I find this to be much scarier than an operation! Isn't it amazing what we get used to? You are used to the bleeding and the pain; it's the devil you know. A hysterectomy represents the unknown, so of course it is scarier.

Are you sure you will HAVE to do HRT? Could you make an appt with your doc to discuss the after effects of your total hysterectomy and come up with a plan to combat the effects of surgical menopause? If you discuss your fears, and if your doc will give you some good information, perhaps your shock will subside a bit.

Also, there are new studies showing much safer ways to use HRT's involving topical creams, etc.. One of them I found from this site on the News thread or something like that. When it comes time, or even before if it doesn't mess with your head, you can go the hormone jungle thread on this site to learn a lot.

Kara

First might I suggest you take a couple of deep breaths.

And as English quoted you, re-read your own description in your own words of what you have been living with.

I know this is hard to deal with and you shouldn't rush into something if you are not ready unless it is a matter of severe health issues - emergency situation. If you need to get a second opinion - do it. If you need a couple of weeks to figure things out - take them.

May I pray for you?

Dear Lord Jesus-

I bring Janessa to you and lift her before you today as she is facing health issues and decisions. Lord God - You created her body and You know what is best for her. I pray that you will wrap her in Your arms and give her Your comfort, wisdom and peace. Lead her to the right decision, lead her to another doctor if need be. Send someone into her life today that can be a friend and companion through this and offer her strength and encouragement.
Your Word tells us that You will never leave us nor forsake us - may she feel Your presence even now.

I ask these thing in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. Amen

Keep us informed by posting.

A total hysterectomy refers to the removal of the uterus and cervix if does not imply ovaries. Are you sure you ovaries will be removed? Did the doctor say you would need HRT after surgery? Keep asking questions and learning it will help with your fear and decisions.
Good luck

Hi Janessa12,

I agree with the other Hyster Sisters. Keep asking your questions. I remember when my Dr. recommended a hyst. I felt like a truck ran over me. Yikes!!!

I might suggest you get a 2nd opnion. I got two opinions myself and it is still one of the best things I ever did.

It sounds like your Dr. is recommending a total hyst (uterus and cervix) due to fibroids, heavy bleeding, an ovarian cyst and abnormal pap smears. I agree with the other ladies about the ovaries. You might ask your Dr. why he/she is recommending removal of both of them. If your left ovary is healthy...you might keep it for the hormones it produces. Just my thoughts.

Just do not feel alone. We Hyster Sisters are here to help if we can.

Best wishes~

Mary