Your advice appreciated

Hi

I've been reading this site for a couple of weeks now and I've found everyone's story is different and interesting. I would appreciate some advice as to questions or procedures you think that are important that I ask the Gyn about on my first visit 31/1/02.

My history is as follows - 47 year old, 3 births, 1 vaginal, 2 caesars, tubal ligation 18 years ago. Since then I've had heavy periods but have managed to cope. The last year it has become unbearable, I dread those days so much. The pain has increased in strength and length to 3 days, the bleeding is so heavy I am changing tampons and pads every 30 minutes, as you can imagine it's almost impossible to have a "normal" life on those days. My only hint of what is the problem is a scan I had a year ago for pelvic pain. It showed a fibroid (4cm x 4 cm) and the report stated I had a bulky uterus! Finally I have decided it's time to take action hence the appointment.

I know that possibly because of my age I am looking at a hyster.... but then there are all the options... any advice gratefully read

Auzroz

There is a great list of preop questions on the home page. Here is the link: http://www.hystersisters.com/dirpre.php

Hope this helps!

Auzroz,

Did you check out the forum called "Hysterectomy Options and Alternatives" on this site?

The ladies there could definitely give you some insight into other ways to deal with your "monthly problem."

Wishing you the best of luck, whatever you choose to do!

Don't downplay your symptoms to your dr. and don't stay with a dr. who won't take any serious action, or you will be living with this painful problem indefinitely. It is likely the symptoms will continue to get increasingly worse. An OBGYN may not be as familiar with these types of problems as a GYN who specializes in gynecological problems. Ask friends, family or area nurses for names of GYN doctors and, if necessary, insist on a referral from your current dr. to see a specialist. If drug therapy (which is awful) or simple outpatient surgery don't help and you have to consider a hysterectomy, consider a laparoscopic assisted procedure which is minimally invasive and quicker recovery time.

Good luck.