I'm considering a hysterectomy b/c I cannot tolerate progestin & have already had 2 D&C because I haven't taken enough progestin & the uterine lining is too thick.

Doc says have everything out (I'm 56 in meno on hrt) uterus, ovaries, cervix.

If I do this, how do I know that I won't have bladder problems and/or pelvic support issues?

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Colleen

p.s. Also I asked Doc what about testoserone produced by ovaries. My energy level is already extremely low along with sex drive. She said no big deal b/c adrenals produce most testosterone now. What do you think?

Hi Colleen, This seems a radical approach for you to have everything removed. I have talked to several friends who have had everything removed and they have had serious problems getting their hormones balanced afterward. Surgical menopause can be rough going. Two of my friends became incontinent. One of them had some serious mental issues. Have you considered tapering yourself off of the HRT? You will go more slowly into meno by tapering versus surgical menopause. How long have you been on HRT? Were you post-meno when you started the HRT or where you still having periods?The Oestrogen is most likely causing your lining to build up and because you can't tolerate progesterone well, you may be Estrogen dominent. In my opinion too many hysterectomies are done in this country, still. It is a big money maker. It absolutely blows me away how many doctors suggest it as the solution to all uterine problems. If you have cancer of the uterus or cervix, yes, the surgery is appropriate. I am sure there are other cases that are appropriate too. Please research this and get a second opinion before submitting to this major surgery. If you want a resource to help with your research, PM me and I will send it to you.

Take Care!

CG

I had a hysterectomy (at 53) but kept my ovaries. I wasn't on HRT at the time, was post meno, and I haven't had to take any HRT after the surgery. I've notice no difference in hormonal swings, etc. post surgery. I had to have the hysterectomy because of prolapse issues, so they were dealt with at the same time as the surgery. I had a long surgery (5 hours) because of the different procedures to repair the prolapses, but I only stayed in the hospital overnight. Recovery from the surgery was pretty uneventful. I did develop pneumonia about 10 days post surgery, but that too resolved rather quickly.

If you are unsure, it's never a bad idea to seek out a second opinion.

Colleen,
Check out the Hystersisters Web site before you decide. I agree with everything careergrl says--I think this approach is much too radical. You'll be trading one set of problems for another--including bladder and pelvic support problems. Removing your cervix and ovaries is really going too far, IMO. Your ovaries produce a small amount of hormones all of your life. Maybe you need to try a different form or dosage of HRT--I would definitely seek another opinion if I were you.

Unless you absolutely need this surgery, I wouldn't recommend. I had my surgery 1 1/2 yrs. ago, everything removed. Mine was necessary, I had no choice. Going into surgical menopause can be very rough. Not everyyone is the same, but for me, it has been a long struggle, with many symptoms that I never even knew existed. Good luck with whatever you decide. Mary