Guest guest Posted January 27, 2004 Report Share Posted January 27, 2004 Hi Ladies, Other than one or two specific replies, I've been a silent lurker, but I wanted you all to know how much I have learned from all of you. Last August I was on " fast track " for a hysterectomy due to a large, painful, problematic fibroid tumor that was diagnosed when I thought I was having an appendicitis attack. I was told the tumor might burst. Luckily for me the doctor left for vacation prior to my HMO's authorization for the procedure (an angel on my shoulder, I guess!). From day one I began researching what I would do for hormone replacement, since both the OB/GYN and my GP told me that everything should be taken out so as " not to worry " (about ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, etc.)in the future. Whew! What I didn't know at the time was well covered in my good old intuition, because not only was I waking up every night in a cold sweat, but this little voice kept telling me to run! Since then I've found this group, read four books, and through a referral from Dr. Stanley West in NY, discovered Dr. Bill in Santa . My appt. w/Dr. was less than one week prior to my hysterectomy scheduled date, however by the time I made the appt. with I knew in my heart there was a better way. I have studied for months on my options, and decided upon the myomectomy for several reasons. I did not want to go through a procedure and also have the financial investment unless this damned tumor was out completely. For some ladies, having a percentage of shrinkage is sufficient. However, realizing I've lived with this little squatter for so long, when I do something, it's going to be evicted for good! I was also hesitant to partake in any procedure which may bring on menopause. Although I just turned 49, I have not hit menopause yet and I would like my hormones to continue to function normally, and to experience menopause in the natural, metered way that will ultimately occur. Being close to menopause is also another reason a myo is for me, in that the closer one is to it, the less likely fibroids will return. If I was much younger, the chances for recurrence may be greater, so I feel like this is an ideal time, especially since the symptoms are so troublesome (heavy bleeding, anemia, painful cramps, low back pain, bowel and bladder trouble, and the good old pregnant looking tummy!). I cannot tell you how wonderful it feels to know I will be in Dr. 's hands tomorrow! I have been through 15 surgeries in my life (orthopedic surgeries early on in life), and I know all too well how fearful major surgery can be. It amazes me how calm I am, and how much I am looking forward to this. Because I was on an HMO last year, and because they would not cover any expenses outside of my " group " , I switched to a PPO plan, which did not go in to effect until January 1st - thus my wait. This also required my own financial investment because the PPO plan does not cover all expenses as an HMO does. For me, this was a small issue in the scheme of things. This is a gift I give myself. It was not easy, but for my husband and I, it wasn't even a question we had to consider. To have a special Doctor like Dr. is one of the best investments I will ever make. I will keep you posted on my progress and share the experience with you post op. Good luck to each and every one of you on your own journey, and thanks for so much sharing on your parts. Rhonda M Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 27, 2004 Report Share Posted January 27, 2004 Hi Rhonda Your story is very similar to mine. I'm also 49,and chose a myo for the same reasons you mentioned. I'm scheduled for ab myo with Dr. Levine in MA on Mon, Feb.2. I wish you a smooth procedure, and speedy comfortable recovery. Won't it be GREAT to be free of the darn things?? Sending out positive thoughts your way! -Mindy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 27, 2004 Report Share Posted January 27, 2004 Wonderfully written. Good luck tomorrow! You'll be fibroid free! Ku Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 27, 2004 Report Share Posted January 27, 2004 Hi Rhonda, I did the HMO to PPO switch effective Jan 1 too. Good luck tomorrow. Gerri Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2004 Report Share Posted January 28, 2004 Hi Rhonda All the best- mine is next week- maybe we can compare notes. Sue Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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