Hysterectomy at 24

[VickySmith1993]

Hi all. I am a first time poster, but have been reading for a few months now. Apologies in advance for the longish post.

I have suffered with endometriosis and ovarian cysts since the age of 12. In the last three years the pain got so bad that I have not been able to work, and have lived my life dosed on oramorph and tramadol; barely functioning.

I have tried pretty much every treatment for endo going, and received constant migraines, mild osteoporosis and anxiety/panic attacks as a result of the treatments, but no real reduction in pain.

Three weeks ago I made the decision to have a total laparoscopic hysterectomy, with removal of both ovaries and the cervix at the advice of my consultant. It was a decision that myself and my fiancé did not take lightly. We suffered many sleepless nights and too many tears to count, thinking about what we would have to give up in order to try and give me a normal life.

Now, three weeks on, I am healing really well, I am no longer in much pain at all. However the reality of the decision I have made is sinking in. The advice of my consultant and others I know have had a hysterectomy was that the first few months post-op are a really emotional time. But I am really struggling with feelings of guilt and loss for the possibility I have given up.

I am really hoping that this was the right decision and that it will give me back the life that endo has taken from me, but at the moment it is too early to tell if this will be the case.

I was wondering if any of you have been through a premature hysterectomy, or can give me any advice about the best ways that you have found to handle and process these feelings post-op. I live in Cheltenham and despite looking, I haven't managed to find any local, relevant support groups. So I am hoping that turning to this online forum might give me an outlet and some words of support. I would be so grateful for any tips, advice, or stories that all of you strong and beautiful people might have to share!

Vicky.

[RachaelE]

Hi Vikki. I’m sorry you’ve had such a sad time, but hope you will start to feel well soon. I live in your area and I know the surgeons locally are excellent, so I’m sure you’ve been well looked after. I had the same op 2 years ago under the care of Mr Whittaker. Have you heard of The Daisy Network? They support women going through premature menopause and I’m sure they’d have lots of advice for you on that side of things. Also, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has lots of Patient advice leaflets on their website. They are definitely worth a look.

daisynetwork.org.uk/

rcog.org.uk/en/patients/

I have started a small network of women supporting each other through menopause, although we’re all a little older than you, but if I can help in anyway, please message me.

Rachael x

[VickySmith1993 in reply to RachaelE]

Hi Rachael. Thanks very much for your reply.

I had my operation done privately under Mr Kaloo, but I have had appointments with Mr Whittaker in the past.

I've only just started looking into things like The Daisy Network, and I hadn't heard of the of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. So thanks for recommending that one!

In terms of your support group, is this in person or online? I've found that everyone online has been really helpful and supportive, but I haven't found a group that I can attend in person and meet people to get advice and things.

Thanks again!

Vicky

[RachaelE in reply to VickySmith1993]

I had mine privately too, and I’ve met Mr Kaloo for an emergency appointment and know he’s lovely. My group is face to face. There’s only 3 of us so far, and we’re really older menopausal women, but I’d be happy to come and see you for a chat and a cup of tea if that would help at all. I struggled with on-Line support groups as some women can be very unkind, which is the last thing I needed. I work in Winchcombe, so I could always pop down after work one day. Xx