Hysterectomy - Flushing,MI

Hi R.! I haven't personally had a hysterectomy, but my mother recently had one a few years ago. She says that she wished she wouldn't have had it done because she feels worse than before. I know everyone has there own personal experience, so what may work for one may not necessarily work for another. Just be certain to do your homework before moving forward with the surgery. I would hate to have you go through something like that and not get the results that you were expecting. Good luck to you!

My problems leading to my surgery were heavy bleeding, and bleeding for long periods of time and major cramping. At first we thought it was due to the polyp I had on my right side in my endometrial wall, had surgery to have that removed, but the bleeding continued, a month and a half later. Birth control pills didn't work, I tried two different kinds, the seasonal, and another kind, the brand escapes me, but neither helped, the seasonal helped for the first 3 months but then it was back to heavy bleeding and bleeding in-between periods. Actually the birth control pills were first, then the polyp removal. So my obgyn said we can insert an hormone releasing iud, which in some cases causes women to stop bleeding entirely, or slow down, and eases cramping. Or I could have a uterine ablation, which cauterizes each side of your fallopian tubes, and stops you from bleeding in most cases. He could not guarantee me that, that procedure would stop my bleeding and make me regular. So I choose with his blessing a hysterectomy. I am 100 % glad that I chose that route, I no longer have problems with my sciatic nerve anymore, I no longer have to use peroxide on my clothing/underwear to get blood stains out, I am no longer calling in sick due to female problems, my moods aren't as bad, my relationship with my husband is great. I don't have to worry about planning a day with the kids swimming and having to back out because of heavy bleeding and cramping. I do have my ovaries still so I will naturally go into menopause when my time comes.

I highly recommend the surgery! Good luck to you R.~
Debbie - mom to 2 boys

I think it's always a good idea to try to keep the God given organs! There has to ba another solution. I would get a second opinion.

I guess my question is to you, if you could avoid a hysterectomy, have regular cycles, feel wonderful and have your body go through pre menopause/menopause with ease and grace, would that be something you would like to explore?

If you do, call me at ###-###-#### or email me. I provide Personal Nutrition Consultations. The first one is at no charge.

M.

Hi R.,

I had a hysterectomy in 2001. I still have my ovaries, it allows my body to supply the natural estrogens without having to take estrogen with a full hysterectomy. The only problems that I had was a little weight gain, which is not major I am able to maintain my weight. Also find that about a year after my hysterectomy I had become depressed and anxious, not sure why, but found myself crying alot, but with the right medication it is controlled and I feel wonderful.

I am in heaven now !Dont be scared in a couple of days you are good to go and every month you will think you are the luckiest lady in the world. Breast in my case let me know yea this must be the time. Ha!Give your supplies to your friends and smile. I have both overies and all of the urges are all there. I call you a lucky lady!

R.:
I am 44 years old and had my hysterectomy in September. I had internal complications because I had a huge tumor which caused many of my organs to stick to each other. I recovered very easily and am so glad I had it done.

I was anemic and being treated for depression. Both now gone. My doctor told me that this would change my body... for the better!

My only advise, my gyn advised me that ovarian cancer is virtually impossible to detect so I opted to have everything removed. It has given me peace of mind and I have had no regrets what so ever.

Good luck, don't push your recovery as us moms tend to do, and talk to your gyn about thoughts on ovarian cancer.

K.

Hi R.

I had a complete hystorectomy last March because of fibroids. I also had a lot of pain because of the fibroids. The doctor went into surgery hoping to do it vaginally but was not able to so I ended up having the insicion on my stomach. I was in the hospital 4 days and it took the full 6 weeks to fully recover. For me the hystorecomy was a very good decision. There was quite a long healing process but now all the pain is gone. I have not had to take any hormone pills. I get some hot flashes but not enough to take any medicine for.

I just saw a whole news show on how Doctors are over prescribing hysterectomies. I believe we need our organs. Unless they are full of cancer or something. It sounds to me like you need to balance out you're hormones. I would have a full hormone screen blood test done to check all you estrogen, progesterine, testosterone, and follicle stimulating hormones. They regulate so much. Then I would look into alternative solutions like endocrine support supplements, or hormone therapy. I see Dr. Diane Culik in Eastpointe. She specializes in hormonal disorders and female health issues. She is more alternative and takes insurance. She doesn't push the drugs, only when necessary. The clinic is Edelweiss family practice.
http://www.edelweisshealth.com/
Check out this website it tells all the things Dr. Culik specializes in, including natural hormone replacement.

Good luck.

Good morning R.,

I would like to share my experience about my hysterectomy.

I was in the same situation back in 2004 ( actually, it started in about 2002), I was bleeding ALOT, it was really awful and quite inconvienient, not to mention all of the cramping. At first, my doctor recommended d/c, that didn't work, so on to the next thing, a balloon ablation procedure ( I am sure you have heard of this, they sear the inside of your uterus so as to ruin the lining and stop the bleeding), for me, that didn't work either, next up: the Nova sure ( not sure on the spelling ) very similar though, that was also a "bust" for me. ( apparently, my uterus was not only huge, but mis-shapen too, LOL) So, on to the hysterectomy. I was happy to have it done. A few complications for ME though, I have lot's of scar tissue problems and in this moment my doctor realized my bladder and my uterus were "fused" together with scar tissue ( I had 3 c-sections prior to this ). during the operation he, in an attempt to seperate the two, put his finger right through my bladder ( YIKES!). My doctor is awesome, don't get the idea that he's not, just bad luck really. He sewed up my bladder and I needed a cathereter for about 2 weeks.. ( also, not fun). mostly, things went well, I will warn you, if you have not had alot of surgeries, some people experience a bout of depression after something like this
( it is caused by a temperary brain chemical change from the anesthetic ). I didn't understand what was going on and it took me about 2 months or more to realize I needed help. I went on Welbutrin XL and about 8 months later, I was able to stop that medication and move on with my life. Over all I recommend the hysterectomy, your life will be so much simpler,and enjoyable. I have been experiencing more problems since then with scar tissue and then last year, my left ovary had a fight with my appendix ( I know, it doesn't sound possible, but it is), they "bounced" my ovary and my appendix right out. It took a long time to diagnoss, because sometimes doctors think they know more about your body then you do ( always go with your gut on those things ) I was persistent that something was wrong ( hhmm, I was right ). I thought that would be the end of my troubles, but apparently not so much... I have been having "chronic " pelvic pain for about 6 months now ( yay, me!) I have seen about 4 different types of doctors and finally, they are listening to me.. I believe it is scar tissue again.. I will actually be talking to a surgeon today about what my options are. ( the depression has been causing trouble after each time under anesthetic ).

I wanted to warn you about the possible chemical change, It is only temporary, and some people don't experience it at all. I will pray for a quick recovery for you. It sounds like the best option for you. I hope I didn't worry you, but no one warned me about the mental problems ). Good luck to you , I hope things get better for you. A.

R.,

If I were you I would be getting second and third opinions. I'd also ask for "proof" of uterine infections...they are rare...and many Dr's aren't aware of the NORMAL cervical discharge which can look funky to the unsuspecting. Repeated rounds of anti-biotics will leave you prone to Yeast infections and Bacterial Vaginosis (because either all your flora is killed off (yeast) or your internal PH is thrown off and invites bacterial growth) Yeast infections btw don't have anything to do with your uterus...so if that is the infection you're talking about I would suggest changing your diet (limiting sugars and refined carbs) Google "Candida overgrowth" for tips on eliminating yeast issues.

I would also look into alternative treatment options.

Last year I had an 8week long extremely heavy and painful "period" I ended up taking BCP's to stop the bleeding (I normally don't take them because I literally go a wee bit crazy on them...they mess with my emotions too much) After the bleeding slowed enough I went to a Massage Therapist that was trained in Mayan Abdominal Massage (google it) The theory is that when your uterus and ovaries are out of place it causes abnormal pain and bleeding so my gently moving them you can relieve the symptoms. It took about 3 visits to get things straightened out (I've had 3 children all by c-section so I have a bit of scar tissue in there, as well as having my uterus shoved back into me made it kind of off kilter) I am now having regular 32 day cycles (my norm) with moderate bleeding lasting 5-6 days. I no longer have the amount of pain either.

I guess in short. Research Research Research...try everything before you submit to a surgery you may not need.

I had a hysterectomy and the doctor kepy in my ovaies, everything went fine and I have had no problems or complications, wish they would of done it sooner, had lots of problems with excessive bleeding, painful cramping each month and yeast infections. I am 40 now and I was 37 when I had it done. I have had no bladder problems, but they say you can because the bladder drops because there is nothing holding it up anymore. No cutting to get it done like years ago too, they went through vagina and pulled it all out. Recovery was a lot quicker than when I had my c-sections with two of my kids. I would say go for it, it has been great for me, just make sure your not having anymore kids, be really sure!

Hi R.---Have you ever thought about looking at your diet as a good place to start balancing hormones and strenthening your immune system to reduce pain and risk of infection?

I am studying to be a wellness educator through a Naturopath who has her PhD in nutrition. Many of the health problems we have today can be a result of diet and lifestyle habits. Not to say that yours have been bad, but with all of the nasty stuff in our environment, combined with the fact that our food is not as healthy as it should be, I don't think we stand a chance, unless we become much more proactive in PROTECTING our health.

Many of the synthetic products we use today mimic estrogen in the blood stream. And excess estrogen is the cause of many diseases. One of the easiest things you can do is to be sure that you are eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and veggies, 7-13 servings each day are recommended, as well as whole grains and legumes (beans). Eating foods with lots of fiber helps in many ways. Soluble fiber (think the white part of the orange, the 'spongy' inside of a pepper) helps to 'soak' up excess estrogen in the bloodstream and then carry it out of the body. The fiber helps to remove excess cholesterol as well. Another bonus is that if we are eating more fiber rich foods, you will lose weight as you simply cannot eat too much food. According to my studies, 48 grams is really necessary for optimal health. It is also important to minimize your consumption of animal products, as conventional farming adds hormones to your diet, as well as saturated fat. My family has also given up drinking cows milk. Go to www.strongbones.org to learn why milk is for baby cows, not for humans.

Eating lots of fruits and veggies will also strengthen and balance your immune system, making you less prone to infection, and offering better cancer protection as well.

Eating for health is a lifelong commitment. Adopting a healthier diet may take some time for you to see results, depending on your health status right now. And sometimes we need a little help getting the nutrition we need to enable our body to heal and protect itself. I have some great ideas and articles I can share with you, if you'd like. I also recommend a great whole food supplement that has several independent, original studies that show positive changes in health status.

I look forward to talking to you. Good luck with your search. In health, D. ###-###-#### www.dianeshealthed.com

HI R.,

Have you checked out alternatives to hysterectomy? I have had painful, periods that make me physically ill, that BC pills did not control. I begged my dr. to just take out my uterus, as I also am done having children, but he asked me to try Mirena. I did, and that was 5 years ago, I just had it replaced. NO PERIODS!!!! If you want my personal experience, just send me a message. There also is ablation that can help, maybe a second opinion would be warranted? I don't know what the infections would do as far as you being a candidate for one of the alternatives, that would be a question to ask. Good luck

Hi R., I am now 45, but was 34 when I had my hysterectomy. It was medically needed due to Adenomyosis. I couldn't be happier. Painfree & Period free for years. Due to the fact that they leave the ovaries as long as they appear to be in good health, usually there are no hormonal "issues". I recovered from my surgery, which included re-suspending the bladder (unsure of the medical term) w/out difficulty. My Doctor was able to complete my hysterectomy vaginally which helps tremendously w/ the recovery process, especially w/ little ones at home. I hope that you make the decision to go ahead w/ the recommended procedure & that all goes very well!! ~ J. ~

Dear R. L.,

I had my hysterectomy back in 1994 and I am what is considered to be morbidly obese, so if you are not fat, you may not have as much pain as I did. All the muscles were cut through to get to my uterus and the ovaries were left in. It was at that time, the most pain I had ever endured, but worth it in the long run. All my periods were so painful and just miserable. My husband had to help me get up during the night to use the toilet and every move hurt me terribly. My husband bathed me at night because I feared moving much due to pulling staples.

If you can exercise on a regular basis so that your body is in better condition than mine was, that would likely help tremendously. The hospital told me to eat yogurt because I had an infection when I left the hospital and the nurse said that it seems to help infections go away.

The pain of the surgery and recovery was worth not ever having periods again. I had fibroid tumors inside my uterus and it was misshapen because it was so full of them. You save money since you don't need to buy sanitary products for yourself any more. I would recommend this surgery for others because the thought of being in pain the rest of your life during and just before periods is not a pleasant thought. The pain only lasts 4 - 8 weeks and then you are almost back to normal.

Hope this helps some.

L. C.

Hello R., I have had the hysterectomy with just the uterus removed, If you have this done just dont go to Garden City Hospital and know your doctor well. I had all the bleeding at least 3 weeks out of a month and the same issues you have. I went into a emergency surgery and they said they removed the uterous because of the pains I was getting. Well now I still have periods just not as heavy and my ovaries keep getting sis on them so I experience pains every month, But my new doctor put me on birth control and explained to me the doctor who did the surgery left part of the uterus in?? So I am on birthcontrol to control the sis on the ovaries and my bleeding and have to do this until I hit menapause and that is not happening no time soon please know your doctor well and dont go to Garden City

I had a partial hysterectomy 3 or 4 years ago, and it was the best thing I ever did, next to marrying my husband and having kids. I love the freedom of no more periods (I had very painful periods, heavy and had fibroids). My uterus was removed (outpatient, so I was home the very same day!!) and it was no big deal. I was off 3 weeks for recovery, and really didn't even need that much time, but took it anyway. I still have my ovaries so I have hormones and will experience menopause, but I do not miss my monthly visitor at all!! I love it!! Good luck to you. I am sure that you will be very happy. Feel free to email me if you have any further questions.

I had this procedure done, they were able to do it vaginally, i had very little pain after, and I have absolutely no problems like I had before, heavy bleeding, severe, crippling cramps. So as far as i am concerned it's the best thing that I ever chose to have done. My cycles literally halted my everyday life cause I was so miserable. Now, ZERO problems!! Good Luck!!

You are young indeed....I had the same surgery and also had a bladder suspension. I worried about it also, but was so done with the 28 day bleeds and only 1 week off. You may need some extra help with the kids, no lifting and such for a while.
Any medical issues should be asked of your dr. of course but the actual hysterectomy was no problem for me, couple days in the hospital was all.

R., I had a hysterectomy a year ago last August....(52 at the time)I had alot of clotting ,back pain and etc. at least 2 weeks at a time....

I knew I had fibroids and for years I put it off hoping menopause would take care of my problems, but that's just no way to live....I had a TVH, it went very well ,when the path tests came back we found I also had Adneomoysis, which is endo on the inside of your uterus, which is hard to find until the surgery....My Dr. said that was probably my biggest problem......Over all I feel so much better now than before....

I never had had any kind of surgery before so in looking for info about a hysterectomy's I found a wonderful site , which I still go to everyday as I've made loads of cyber friends that went through the same thing.....to this day we chat play games and tons more there....

At this site you can find answers to any questions you might have or ask questions to many people that had surgery, are going to, or like you just looking for info...it's free and there is more research info there than you probably will ever need or want to know......

Hope you will check it out www.hystersisters.com.....on the site I'm 11306em.

Good Luck....B.

Hi R., did your doctor ever discuss with you having a procedure called an "ablation?" I hear it's a great option for women who are having problems with heavy bleeding, irregular bleeding and even bad PMS! My mom is 47 years old and just had this procedure done last week, she's doing great! The procedure itself took only 20 minutes and I guess it can sometimes be done right in a doctors office! I'd ask your doctor what he would think about this procedure first! Oh, and plus... it doesn't make you begin menopause and you don't have to take hormone replacements with this:) Good Luck! M.

Hi R.,
I had a hysterectomy last year and I couldn't be happier! I had fibroids, which caused heavy irregular bleeding, pain etc. I had a wonderful doctor, Dr. Hamati in Muskegon and I got to keep my ovaries. He totally will do what is best for you and keep your ovaries if he can. He is awesome! I had the DaVinci hysterectomy and recovery was awesome. There are just 4 tiny incisions and there is only one very tiny scar....the others you don't even notice. This is the procedure I would recommend if having a hysterectomy. I can't say enough. You can read up on the procedure at www.davincisurgery.com Whatever you decide, good luck to you:)