Unnecessary hysterectomy

On May 20 I went to the OB/GYN for a regular exam and because of burning and itching. I was perimenopausal at the time and had been for the last two years. The doctor was concerned because she felt my period should have stopped completely already because of my age (52) and suggested an endometrial biopsy "just to see if there's anything going on in there." The biopsy came back "Complex hyperplasia without atypia." I was told that if I were of childbearing years that she would attempt to treat this, but because of my age it was best to have everything out. That was her recommendation because there is a "40% chance this can become cancerous." I followed up with my primary who said the same thing and actually yelled at me for wanting to wait and see and think about this.
On July 21 I had TAH/BSO. On July 29 I had the staples removed and steri strips applied and received the results of the surgical pathology showing absolutely no signs of hyperplasia. My uterus was normal. The doctor agreed that I did not need a hysterectomy. She said that the pathologist must have "overread" the endometrial biopsy.
I never had painful periods or anything like that. I did bleed quite a lot from time to time but that was it. No history of cancer in my family. I had a normal ultrasound (uterine lining 6mm thick) after the original biopsy. If my doctor hadn't been so adamant about my need for a hysterectomy and did D&C she would have found no need for the TAH/BSO. Now I'm down uterus, ovaries, and cervix and am in surgical menopause.
The doctor was quite flippant about all this saying only, "Well, at least you don't have to deal with all that mess, anymore." I was too stunned to react. If I had I would have either completely melted down or slugged her. I melted down when I got home.
Right now, I'm confused and struggling. I can't imagine moving on in my life and just letting this go. I don't really know what to do.
I'm writing this for anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation. Get lots of tests done, and don't let the doctor push you into surgery.

I totally understand your frustration as my doctor and I had a serious argument 10 minutes before my surgery.

I however knew in my heart that something was dreadfully not right with me. I did have cervical cancer once and my CA-125 levels were high for ovarian cancer. And, I had some serious problems. I don't particularly care for my doctor and how she's handled my whole situation. It was evident she was more concerned with whether or not I would sue her than my actual condition. And, was very angry that I wanted to keep my ovaries if they were normal. However, they were not and somehow I knew in my heart they weren't.

I feel for you and can understand your serious pain.

If I could do it again I would seek several other opioions. Although for me, I know the result would have been the same. I really do hope that there will be some peace for you... I'm really sorry that you are going thru this.

Oh no.. I can't even imagine! Plus, the doctor was so flippant about it. Your choice was totally taken away.

Will you do anything about this, once the shock, hurt and anger start to sink in?

I don't even know what to say. I'm so sorry....

Wow... so sorry to hear about that ... especially with your dr. being so uncaring about it ... a hysterectomy is major surgery and should never be taken lightly. I'm sure some dr.'s encourage women to have hysterctomies because they bring in big money...unfortunately.

I read somewhere that insurance companies are getting more reluctant to pay for hysterectomies... unless you are bleeding to death or have a cancer scare...

Anyway.. thats terrible... i'm so sorry you went through that...

Take care,

Karen

Your doctor would lose her flippancy really quick should your attorney come knocking at her door...

I know we can't help you with the part that your doctor has played. I would suggest an attorney.

However, I know from my experience on this site that there are alot of ""wonderful"" women who can help you with the part of the hysterectomy. You are going to need all the support you can get - to get thru that part. That's going to be really important to help hold you up so that you can proceed with any legal matters. You'll need your strength and encouragement to battle the emotional and physical stress of the hysterectomy alone. May the Lord see you thru this.

That is terrible and I feel so bad for you. I wish medicine could always be cut and dried. I know from experience on both sides of the fence that it isn't.

(((hugs)))

Thanks to all who replied and for all your support. I've contacted one medical malpractice law firm for a free consultation. I'll post here what comes of it.

Hi spicycurry! I'm so sorry for what you have been through. Its why we, at hystersisters.com, always suggest getting multiple medical opinions when a doctor suggests a hysterectomy. The hysterectomy should only be considered as the very last resort, after all treatment options have been explored and only with second and third opinions.

That said, I'm very sorry for your outcome - but hope you will understand that our website TOS does not allow for legal talk in our discussions. This is to protect you and your legal issues as well as our members, visitors and overall website liability.

I wish you the best - and hope you will stick around hystersisters.com and let us provide you with support for your hysterectomy questions and concerns without the legal talk.

I'm soooo sorry spicy curry!!!!!!!!!!

I've been in pain for over a year and I had to BEG my dr for this surgery. I had Adenomyosis, cysts, and an inverted uterus.