Hysterectomy VS the other surgery. I'm so scared!

Hiya,   Is the medication Esmya? (Ullipristal ) I have been using that a few times and has helped. You could try that first. You take it in 3 month courses with a break in between and can now use intermittently but your periods do stop after the first month in majority of cases ( whilst taking it) so you should have a break from the blood loss, everyone is slightly different. It sounds like there are a couple of options before resorting to hysterectomy. That is usually the last resort if nothing else helps as it is major surgery. One 3 cm fibroid doesnt sound too bad. I dont know what effect the lesions have though. I have many fibroids, but my periods are manageable.  Good luck 

Hi Juzwiak77. I thiink I have some information that may be beneficial to you. First I have not had the hysterectomy, but I do know about the other option you are talking about. It's Uterine Fibroid Embolism. That is the procedure I went with in order to avoid the other. Hyster. should be the last resort as it is going to cause us to age rapidly before time. Like increasing the rate of bone loss, and possibly the developement of certain cancers.  My OBG/YN says that unless you are over the age of 50 there are vital hormones in the reproductive system that we need to hang onto as long as we can. 

With that said, I specifically chose UFE first because I already have Degenerative Disc Disease. So I must protect my bones for as long as I can. A quick background so that it is clear for you. I was referred to a Radiologist for this procedure because I was at the stage where my uterus was abnormally large pressing on other organs, had all three types of fibroids, multiple and large. Ranging from the size of quarters to softballs. Bleeding on an average of 10 15 days, and debilitating pain that eventually crossed over to even when the period wasn't present. 

Went for the procedure and can tell you that thus far the periods have changed to normal periods. Not a lot of clots, and having to wear adult diapers anymore.The pain has decreased a lot, and is not primarly during mensus.At my 6 mth post op check up I will be able to tell you how much they have actually shrunk, But on a final note, the hysterectomy is reserved for if the UFE doesn't work. Luckily your symptoms haven't become severe so this may be a really good option for you at this point. Please have your doctor discuss the long term risks of hysterectomy, if they don't atleast mention the things I have, then please get a second opinion. Good Luck and God Bless.

Hi Juz... I haven't had hysterectomy. Trying to avoid it. Just the mechanics of removing your uterus can cause issues anytime like a prolapsed bladder. It's should be a last resort. But it can take time to find something that works long term. I've been dealing with heavy bleeding for 6 years. I've had an ablation, an IUD, and meds. All our these helped temporarily ( about 2 years each) and 4 months ago I've had the UFE. It shows a lot of promise so far and if it gets me to menopause ( about 2 years away) then the bleeding should stop on its own and I will have kept my uterus.

Like 1Roc said even after menopause you reproductive organs are working to maintain good bone and cardiovascular health.

Hi there, I had an 8cm fibroid on my uterine wall pushing aginst my bladder and 2 gynos immediately said I needed a hysterectomy and was seriously considering this until I researched books on options and spoke to some women that have had a hysterectomy. Hearing their experiences is what concerned me. I sought a third gyno who recommended I take fibristal (in Canada) to shrink the fibroid for a 3 month on, stop then 3 months again on before non invasive surgery. After a week and a half on this medication, cramps stopped, everything improved and keeps improving (on 2 months of meds) and fibroid is shrinking. You are young like me so consider your options before jumping to a hysterectomy.

Sorry to hear you are suffering at the moment.  I agree with the other ladies that have replied to you.  Make sure it’s your last resort. Also find out what impact the lesions are having. Read up and check out the other options that may be available to you. Some treatment options are dependent on the size and location of your fibroids as well as the size of your uterus. So make a list of questions for when you see your gynae. I had an open hysterectomy 2.5 years ago but I’ve kept my ovaries.   ESMYA was only licensed for one course of treatment at the time so I took it for three months to help shrink them before surgery.  My main fibroid which was causing my symptoms had shrunk by 4cms. I was 42 at the time with no children but I was so ill and had no quality of life.  I felt so much better within a few days of surgery, than I had done the previous couple of years as I suffered from anaemia, pain and severe blood loss that I required 3 blood transfusions.  If you have any further questions feel free to PM me. Good luck xx