Undecided (doctor advises TAH/BSO due to uterine prolapse)

My doctor has advised that I have a total hysterectomy. Since my uterus is so enlarged I am not a canidate for laproscopic (sp) or vaginal. I am experiencing many bladder problems and pelvic pressure. I am 47 years old and have been SO blessed to have wonderful health. I've only had my tonsils wisdom teeth out! Everything is still there....for the time being... . I have several friends who say that having the surgery was the best decision they ever made. I am concerned about the hormonal implications afterwards since he will also be taking my ovaries. Any words of wisdom?

All I can say is that, so far it was the best decision for ME. I had severe back pain, cramps and bleeding, not to mention recurring ovarian cysts that kept rupturing. I am now 6 months post op, no more back pain, and no more bleeding, I do experience slight cramping (usually around the time I was suppose to get my period). I have chosen not to do HRT, so I do expereince some "warm moments" . I made my decision when my symptoms started running my life, and I was living my life around pain, cramps and periods. I knew it was the right decison for me. I don;t know if this helps, but I knew it was the right time for me.

I am only 31. I had stage IV endometriosis. For me, the pain was horrible. the hyster wasnt even 100% to cure it. But, so far, I have had the most wonderful 3 months of being pain free. TOTALLY worth it.

Well, I guess it depends on why the doc. is recommending a hyst., including why he's recommending taking the ovaries. I knew it was right for me because every other option was worse than a hyst.

Kara

Hi wm1914 and

We’re happy you joined the Hystersisters community! There is a ton of solid information on the site, and the members have unlimited cyber-hugs to dispense and experiences to share with you at every stage of your journey to good health!

If you haven’t already done so, please do yourself a favor and register to receive Hysterectomy Checkpoints. It’s one of the best features of the site, in my opinion -- designed to accompany you through the entire hysterectomy experience from start to finish, and beyond!

You can take the opportunity to prepare yourself for what’s ahead by reading the Pre-Op Articles. You might find the following particularly helpful:

Coping With Pre-Op Anxiety & Fear

What to Expect at the Hospital

What to Bring to the Hospital

How Others Can Help

Is Sex Afterwards Really The Same?

You might enjoy browsing through the stories in the Tell Your Hyst-Story section. The posts are sorted by the type of surgery that was performed so it's easy to find the stories that tell about the type of hysterectomy you are scheduled to have.

Through the years, hundreds of women have shared their personal suggestions in Hints from Members that you may also want to peruse.

Have you sought a second, independent medical opinion regarding the issues that you are experiencing? A different physician may recommend a different remedy. Even if the same procedure is recommended, hearing it may serve to ease your mind and make you feel more comfortable about proceeding with the surgery.