Hi NL
I'm sorry you are hurting and facing these problems.
Sometimes it's just a quality of life thing where some of us reach the point of saying "enough is enough." Before saying that, however, discuss your remaining alternatives again to see if there's anything you could try before making the decision for hysterectomy. Get another opinion or two, also. Even if you trust and adore your current GYN, it's always a good idea of have at least a second opinion (from an outside practice) before deciding on major surgery.
Most women do fine with hysterectomy but, like your sister, there are some who do not and who have regrets or complications. If I had it to over again, the only thing I think I didn't try that I would have like to is the Mirena IUD system. It's hormone delivery goes right to the uterus where it can thin the lining so there is less (or even nothing) to shed each month. My sister can't use BCP, but she has done great on Mirena. Probably not something you would have anticipated asking about after just having a tubal ligation, but it might help or buy you some time. Sometimes it can take a while for things to readjust after a D&C. Ask your doc if improvement could still be around the corner or is this as good as it gets?
Did they remove the endometriosis they found during your lap? Having a doc who specializes in the treatment and removal of endometriosis would be a very good idea for you. It's important that all the endo is removed with a hysterectomy - not just the organs. Also be sure to discuss whether or not you will retain your ovaries or use HRT, since estrogen can fuel any endo implants left behind.
Adenomyosis requires pathology for a definite diagnosis, but there are times exams, symptoms or MRI's etc are very suggestive of it. Mine was confirmed pre-hyst when they tried to remove a fibroid that was actually a large nodule of adeno instead. When my ablation failed, we knew why - but I still had second opinions to be sure hyst was the best recommendation for me.
You seem to have a lot going on and you deserve to feel better.
Only you and your health care team can tell when and or if the timing is right for *you*. Here are some links that might be helpful to you as you decide. We'll be here for you either way.
Directory of links for Alternatives / Options
Options Articles
Hysterectomy Recommended to you?
Endometriosis/Adenomyosis Resources from our Link Directory
Types of Hysterectomy < The second opinion I saw had a completely different type of hyst in mind for me. When I asked her why she recommended abdominal for me over the laparoscopic my regular gyn suggested, she was honest and said it's b/c she doesn't do laparoscopics. She agreed I'd be a candidate for minimally invasive, just that she couldn't do it that way. So.... do look into reasonings behind the surgery types recommended for you also. Find out what's safest for you and why, etc. but knowing and trusting your surgeon is priceless too.
Good luck with your appt. Don't feel pressured into making a decision that day. Surgery can be scheduled any time by phone just as easily after you've had time to think things through and do your homework.
Best wishes and
s to you,
Beth
Dx w/ endo, adeno at time of lap and tubal on 10/22
