I had a hysterectomy 8 years ago,uterus and ovaries removed due to early cancer. I wouldn't have had it done if there was an alternative, I have had big problems with menopausal symptoms and getting the right HRT for me.
If there is an alternative I would try that first. I was 47 at the time and I feel that I lost 5 years until I was well again.
Good luck with whatever you decide.
I've just popped over to the chat side and seen this...
Yes, I had it done two years ago at Addenbrookes, after having various issues with heavy bleeding and an abortive attempt at 'cheese slicing' one of my largish troublesome fibroids. This was done on top of having the Mirena coil fitted and polyps removed.
The pain and bladder issues were relieved but, the procedure took 3 times as long as expected due to my plumbing, which was um interesting to experience as I hadn't been given any sedation or pain relief initially (other than numbing to the immediate area of the incision). 1.5 hours was a bit of an ordeal.
The nick in the femoral artery didn't really hurt (local anaesthetic) and was much higher up somehow than I expected. But, having mini-drain rods inserted whilst painless was a weird experience. Keeping still for several hours later was more of a problem, I'm a fidgety bridget!
The procedure is supposed to take 30 mins max, I was there for over an hour and a half and it was by that time quite stressful. I think I overdid the morphine pump due to nerves more than pain (but it is painful once the little balls are injected to block off the artery) so felt awful and sick. But better that than the adrenaline that made me want to run from the operating table!!!!
I'm not being alarmist, just giving my own experience.
I did feel quite ill and lethargic for a good 2 weeks after, possibly because of the long time involved in the process. My symptoms did go away but I am now feeling that they are coming back. I'm 50 so maybe that's an age thing.
I'm really glad I went and did something about my heavy bleeding as it was taking over my life. Whether I would have preferred the hysterectomy option (which I thought about) compared to keeping my organs and the UAE I am still undecided.
I don't have children, and part of me wanted to get rid of the organ that hadn't worked as it should and which, even now, is giving me discomfort.
The Mirena coil could be creating some issues but it has been a godsend, giving me back the lost week each month, and allowing me to wear what I choose. Not being able to stand up, let alone go out of the house, is something I do not miss at all.
Failing the coil or surgical intervention, there's cyklocapron transexamic (sp)acid or similar to help with monthly 'flow'...
I'm glad I found this thread as hopefully it'll help other women with difficult decisions. I needed all the information I could find.
Good luck with whatever option you choose.
------------- Camping - emotional resilience in action, a triumph of hope over adversity and antidote to virtual reality.
Thank you bridgeywidge. Your comments are much appreciated. When I first saw the doctor only a hysterectomy was mentioned and I came to terms with it and was OK with it. When I saw the consultant last week when having my biopsy, he asked if the doctor had mentioned any alternatives. When I said no, he mentioned this procedure. I have been gathering as much info as possible and to be honest it has totally stressed me out and wished he had not mentioned it though I guess he has to give me alternatives. To me the hysterectomy seems a better choice though some women wouldn't understand that. I guess in the end you can only choose what is best for you. However, your experience has definitely confirmed I am making the right choice for me
Julie
------------- Wish I could go camping more and not have to work for a living!!!
There is a lot of information on the internet about this, some quite alarming, some more objective. Have a good read if you've not already done so and ask questions.
My best wishes for whatever option you choose and hope your problems are soon a distant memory.
------------- Camping - emotional resilience in action, a triumph of hope over adversity and antidote to virtual reality.
Quote: Originally posted by JacquelineJawa on 31/7/2013
Have you found the website hystersisters.com? There is a lot of information on there, along with a forum.
Thank you will look on there.
Julie
------------- Wish I could go camping more and not have to work for a living!!!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: ladies -uterine artery embolisation
