Types of hysterectomy

[debsw007]

Hi, i've just joined HealthUnlocked and i'm trying to get as much information as possible. I am having issue with my womb/uterus (have posted in the EVE forum) but I have a question about hysterectomy. If this is the option given to me as treatment, would I be able to have a Laparoscopic/vaginal hyst not having had children? I'm 44 and have never wanted a family, so I have no qualms about losing those bits. I have read a few things which conflict, and would like to seek a more professional opinion, or view from someone who has been there. Any help or advice is much appreciated. Ta

I forgot to add that I would probably be unable to have HRT as I have Factor V Leiden issue with my blood and I am at increased risk of DVT. I have not been able to have any hormonal birth control for a number of years now. Have tried Mirena - AWFUL, made things worse.

[Summer143]

I have just a vaginal hysterectomy, ovaries have been left in to avoid forced menopause and having to take HRT. Why do you think you need a hysterectomy. I was diagnosed with adenomyosis, multiple fibroids, endometriosis and a polyp which was removed last year. I am 48 and have had no children and no desire to ever have them but its still a hard decision to make even when you are told by 2 gynaecologists that you need one. I was also showing no sign of menopause.

[debsw007 in reply to Summer143]

Thanks for the reply Summer, I hope you're feeling better, and progressing well with your recovery post op.

After a trans-vaginal ultrasound to look into bleeding, cramp and bloating (menorrhagia for around 3 years, then ablation 2 years ago) , I have been put on a two week path by my doctor after they found a significant amount of fluid in my uterus, and some irregular thickening at the base of my uterus and around my cervix.

I've read a lot of the posts on the forums and my symptoms seem to suggest a few things, but until I see a specialist I don't actually have a firm diagnosis. I'm just trying to gather info and prepare for what might come. I'm fully aware that it's a difficult decision to make for some women, but I've had persistent problems for most of my adult life and I'm ready. If I do have something serious then there is a likelihood that I would have to have a full hyst including ovaries. This is why I mentioned about HRT. I also have hypothyroidism and endometriosis which I believe are linked.

Fingers crossed I get my appointment soon x

[Summer143]

The worst part is the waiting and not knowing. My GP fast tracked me 2 years ago and then over time I was diagnosed with just about everything including Interstitial Cystitis. Fortunately I had private medical insurance through work so got diagnosed a bit quicker by the same surgeon I had seen on the NHS. Because of the endo my hysterectomy and excision of endo were done by an endo specialist who advises to always leave the ovaries. Hope you get some answers soon.

[debsw007 in reply to Summer143]

I am grateful that my doc put me on a two week path. He actually phoned me while I was in the car on the way home just 2 hours after my scan! This is NHS as well, as unfortunately I can't afford private healthcare. As you say, the waiting is awful, but I honestly feel comforted by the support offered on here and Eve.

[RachaelE]

The LAVH is the preferred method by many surgeons if your uterus is not too big or there are no large fibroids, etc. In fact, my first consultant who isn't qualified to do it laparoscopically refused to do it abdominally and referred me to a surgeon who is. I was lucky to be able to go private but the great thing about Gynaecologists is that they tend to work in 4 week cycles so waiting lists generally don't seem to be too long. You would have 3 or 4 small incisions in your abdomen and the top of your vagina closed off to form what they call a vaginal cuff. I had the op 18 months ago but didn't have the smoothest recovery. I had to have two further ops for complications but finally seem to be on the mend. However, I think my case is unusual and most women make a good and quick recovery.

I too tried a Mirena. Nightmare. Screamed at the doctor to get it out or I wouldn't leave the surgery until she did!

If you can't use HRT ask them to leave your ovaries if at all possible. You are likely to go into early menopause as a result of the op, but at least you will still have some oestrogen. HRT saved my life.

I hope whatever you decide to do, it all works out for the best. The Royal College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians has very good patient information pages on their website if you need more information.

[debsw007 in reply to RachaelE]

Thanks RachaelE, i'm hoping that I get a referral to the same surgeon who did my ablation. He's a private surgeon, but also works on complicated NHS referrals. I should hopefully have my appointment soon. I'm sorry to hear you had complications with your recovery, but hope you now continue to feel well.

[debsw007]

Had a hysteroscopy today, failed though. The doc said I have cervical stenosis and I'm almost completely blocked up. He's sending me for an Mri scan, as they couldn't do any biopsy of my endometrium and it would be the best way to view my uterus now. As I'm pre/peri meno, I worry that the fluid and thickening if my uterus would worsen the endometriosis I already have

I guess once the doc has seen my scans he will discuss treatment options with me, but as I think ive read a bit about dilation or hyst as treatment options for stenosis. I dont mind/wish to remain 'reproductive' so I would choose hyst first. Anything that relieves the pain and discomfort I have daily would be welcome though! X