Hysterectomy

[parkezvous]

I have been seen by a gynaecologist today for intermenstrual bleeding, adenomyosis, a polyp, painful intercourse and uterine lining of around 6mm. I’ve been offered a hysterectomy. I’ve said yes and been placed on the wait list. I’m on HRT already which is working well. Should I consider any other option before this surgical management? It’ll be laparoscopic. Can anyone offer words of wisdom?

I can only speak for my experience but I had very similar and went straight to hysterectomy and haven't looked back. The first 24 hours were painful but after that not bad at all. Best thing I've done for myself I think! I am 52 and was going through menopause. HRT gel and was on progesterone but only the gel now.

That’s reassuring @IHateAlzheimersim same age and know this is the best thing to do but it feels so final!

Are you having your ovaries removed as well? That might be something to consider and discuss if you haven't already.

What a relief my hysterectomy was! I never looked back. I was advised to have my ovaries removed as well because if left they can become cancerous apparently.

Yes the ovaries are going! Not sure about the cervix? Will that go as well do you think?

I’m hoping I’ll feel like this as well!

I had a hysterectomy 4 weeks ago and kept my ovaries - to avoid surgical menopause - and also kept my cervix which helps keeps the internal structures in place and lessens the chance of prolapse.

Your gynaecologist should be able to advise about whether you should keep your cervix. They can also discuss other treatments and options. Wait list for hysterectomy is generally very long. Here it's 18 months or more. You have plenty of time to research. I found some UK based hysterectomy forums on Facebook really helpful.

I kept my ovaries (they quickly checked them during surgery and had permission to remove if necessary) but not my tubes. I chose to keep my cervix as well because I think that helps with continence and not prolapsing abdominal organs when I am an old old woman. The laparoscopic scars have healed very well.

I know what you mean about it seeming very final but apart from one time when I wondered if my periods had stopped now (well DUH, I'd forgotten I no longer had a uterus ) it's not even crossed my mind. Physically I feel better than I have in a long time, not one regret has been had!

Oh, SNAP ShowOfHands

Thank you! I’ve been told roughly 3 months, which seems a bit quick!

Thank you!