Question 5
Dear Dr. N.,
I had a total hysterectomy March 1, 1999. I feel wonderful! I have recommended it to everyone, even though we all are different. I had moderate-severe endometriosis. July of 1995, I was diagnosed with same, had a tubal pregnancy and my right ovary larger than a grapefruit. With 2 CCs of blood in my abdomen, I could have lost my life. I had a second surgery (laparoscopic) five months later for same. Then was put on Lupron, then Clomid and became pregnant with my now 2 1/2-year-old (miracle). I decided to go with Depo Provera - which blew me up (10-15 pounds) and decided to resort to BCPs. I took BCPs every day without a cycle, which increased my changes of endometrial cancer. After the hysterectomy, I realized my hormonal level would be off. I have had some mood swings/depression, but keep telling myself this is a phase and will go away with time. This would be my only complaint. Please state something positive in you web site, it seems like all I have read was negative gestures. I tell you I have no pain, more energy, less fatigued, NO BLOOD and enjoy life!
THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!
Reply:
You make a good point. If you read my revised page on hysterectomy, which you might have if you looked at it in the last few days, it has some content that is supportive of your experience.
For instance, "Most of the routinely prescribed programs of HRT are usually effective in preventing the long-term consequences of hormone deficiency and maintaining quality of life."
And the last portion, "Sometimes, women who have surgery for these indications find that their quality of life is significantly improved. This is particularly true when the problem is endometriosis, vaginal hemorrhage and uterine prolapse."
In addition there are some links, such as Suney's Happy Hysterectomy Site, that support this view.
There is no question that the site is more heavily weighted towards the menopausal woman who is experiencing post hysterectomy problems. It is my intent to provide a resource for those women who are not doing well after surgery and to provide options to improve their quality of life.
I was asked a number of times over the years, if I knew what the percentage of women who had little if any problems following a hysterectomy. My answer was always that I didn't know, as the patients I saw were the ones who were having difficulty. And, this is exactly why they came to my office. If they had responded well postoperatively, with or without their initial HRT regimens if indicated, there never would have been a reason to seek me out.
So, it is not my intention to diminish the experience of those who have found that a hysterectomy has improved their quality of life. My intention is to provide options and validation for those who have had their life diminished by the experience.
Dr N