uterine fibroids

[Guest guest]

Hello all:

I've been living in hell for the past several months. I was diagnosed

in December of 00 with uterine fibroids after 1.5 years of horrible

periods. The largest I'm told is 5cm. and have approximately 6-7

fibroids. My symptoms have progressively been getting worse; heavy,

HEAVY periods (saturating a pad every hour), lots of clotting, severe

abdominal pain to the point where I can't stand up straight sometimes,

lower back pain, difficulty urinating (getting the flow going takes

awhile), exhausted all the time, sad, depressed, difficulty

concentrating, the list goes on and on. My periods usually occur

every 24-25 days, with continual spotting throughout the month and

last anywhere from 11-15 days.

I saw my family doctor in March and she attempted to treat the

bleeding with Provera (no affect) than Depo-Provera shots. These

injections had no affect on the bleeding. She later supplemented the

injections with Premarin, still no affect. And finally, high dose

birth control births which again had no affect. I went off everything

in June and was scheduled to see an ob-gyn.

Since the wait time to get into see a specialist is ridiculously long

I've had lots of time to research my problem and my options. I am

adamant I do not want a hyster. (37 no kids). Also do not wish to

pursue UAE. I hope to pursue a laparoscopic myomectomy, but not sure

if I'm a candidate. At any rate, I do want the fibroids removed, but

want to minimize the recovery time if possible.

I'm located near Toronto and am having an extremely difficult time

finding a qualified ob-gyn I'm comfortable with. The first one I saw

poo-poo'd myomectomies altogether and basically told me my only option

was hyster. I ran from his office. The second ob-gyn I saw last week

has ordered a transvaginal ultrasound so he can see exactly where the

fibroids are located. But he did not feel I am a candidate for a

laparoscopic myomectomy, although I don't believe his statement is

altogether true. He also mentioned the last myomectomy he performed,

the woman required a blood transfusion. So my search for a qualified

surgeon continues.

If anyone can recommend a doctor in the Toronto area that is skilled

in performing myos., please email me. I'm really at my wits end.

This problem is affecting every aspect of my life.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Judy