Confused and Anxious

Hello sisters, I am so glad I found this site. I am scheduled for a hysterectomy on Monday, July 9th. I have a 15 cm cyst/mass on my right ovary. I had one removed three years ago. The doctor said I need to remove the mass and ovary but it's up to me if I want to remove the uterus. I am not sure what to do. I've read positive and negative reviews. Because I need an abdominal hysterectomy the doctor tells me that a second surgery(if needed) would be more complicated due to scar tissues, therefore I may as well take everything out now. Any advise would be appreciated.

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Originally Posted by Largo Hello sisters, I am so glad I found this site. I am scheduled for a hysterectomy on Monday, July 9th. I have a 15 cm cyst/mass on my right ovary. I had one removed three years ago. The doctor said I need to remove the mass and ovary but it's up to me if I want to remove the uterus. I am not sure what to do. I've read positive and negative reviews. Because I need an abdominal hysterectomy the doctor tells me that a second surgery(if needed) would be more complicated due to scar tissues, therefore I may as well take everything out now. Any advise would be appreciated.

Is there anything wrong with your uterus? I would not have it removed unless it is unhealthy.

No there is nothing wrong with my uterus. The doctor said if I need hormone therapy I will need two different kinds if I don't take my uterus out and only estrogen if I take it out.

Based on your post, it actually sounds like you are scheduled for an oophorectomy, the removal of an ovary, rather than a hysterectomy. However, your doctor wants you to decide if you should also have your uterus removed at that time.

A hysterectomy is a major surgery that does come with a list of possible side effects so you do want to weigh your pros and cons when making your decision. The "if it is healthy why remove it" works a bit differently in your case as you will be without ovaries but could have a uterus. Without progesterone, the endometrium can thicken which can lead to a cancer concern. Thus, your doctor has shared that you will need to use two hormones: estrogen for your overall health and to minimize menopause symptoms, and progesterone to force a period and hopefully prevent a thickened endometrium. So while it is true one should not rush to remove healthy organs, having a uterus without ovaries does create a unique situation that creates some pros and cons that have to be considered.

Have you had a second opinion about what might be best for you? What does your GP suggest?

I wish you all the best as you work with your medical team to determine what is right for you!