Have you had a hysterectomy? Or awaiting one? Come hither!

[GissASquizz]

Three years ago I had very heavy periods and a lot of pelvic pain. I was referred and had an ultrasound and hysteroscopy. Surgeon removed 3inch polyp from top of the uterus. Periods continued to be painful and heavy. Surgeon then did laparoscopy, removed small amounts of endo. Periods still vile. So third time's a charm, I had a uterine ablation. This stopped the heavy periods, but not my periods full stop, but made little difference to the pain. I was then prescribed a 6 month course of prostap.

I felt amazing on the prostap. No brain fog, vile PMT, pain or crushing anxiety. Once the course finished, my cycle restarted and was well behaved for a year-18 months.

About 6 months ago my periods started getting a little heavier, lasted a bit longer. Then the cramping started. Then the hellish PMT and IBS symptoms.

I've been rereferred and offered a total hysterectomy and bilateral oopherectomy. Consultant believes this is the logical course of action to stop all my symptoms. Apparently I have a bulky uterus with a fibroid so lap surgery is out, it will be abdominal.

Now the surgery part doesn't worry me, but surgical menopause does. I'm also afraid our sex life will cease to exist and it will affect my marriage. I'm 40 and not ready to feel pushed to a later stage of my life iyswim?

Any experiences/words of wisdom?

I'm literally in hospital recovering from my hysterectomy now! Feeling pretty miserable, but after years of chronic pain I cannot wait for the recovery to begin properly and to experience the relief. Highly recommend specific hysterectomy association blogs and forums and Hysterectomy Sisters on Facebook for support and shared experiences, I've learned loads about the differences people have faced and resulting advice, tips and anectdotes. I am certain I've made the right choice, as uncomfy as I currently am!

Oh bless you @Pillowaddict. When was your surgery? What type did you have?

On the 9th, total hysterectomy leaving ovaries, laparoscopic. I'm sore when moving, but already feel better when not. It's been a long time since I've not had that nagging period ache! Got home today too, so feels like recovery can really begin. I did choose to keep ovaries despite a small risk pain could reoccur as I didn't want hrt yet, but feelkng really positive this has been the right choice. There's such a lot of peer support that has helped me considerably to prepare, sympathised with my hormones and mood swings in the run up, even hand held via posts while I've been recovering. Really helped me not to feel alone, so if I can help at all and answer any questions you may have I'd be happy to.