A few thoughts about options...and having them!

I just got back from having a nice breakfast with a friend who has also had a hysterectomy. Hers was done laproscopically- so her recovery was quick and easy. I think she said she was on the couch for two days and that was it. I think I am green with envy. :-)

Those of you who know me know that I tried everything possible before landing this gig with the abdominal surgery (acupuncture, herbal medicine, ayurvedic medicine, homeopathy, Reiki, massage, three different doctor opinions....etc...).

In the event that this blog is ever read by someone who doesn't know me, I think it is important to say one thing to you: research your options and look for a surgeon who is an expert in laproscopic surgery.

Our medical model is sorely lacking in so many ways. One of the worst parts of this hysterectomy experience has been that I have had to do a ton of work and research all by myself. Doctors won't offer you the option of laproscopic surgery or a daVinci robotic surgery unless you ask. Why? It takes more time (about 5 hours versus 1 for an abdominal), there's more liability, it's a tougher surgery to do, many aren't comfortable with it as a technique and have just stuck to the "old ways"...

My advice, if this is ever read by someone who is starting on this journey, is to find an expert who does laproscopic surgery - go and see that person and only forego a laproscopic surgery if that specialist tells you that you don't have a choice (because your uterus is too large, etc.).

That was my issue. It's all too large (20+ weeks in size; or the size of a uterus that is 6-7 months pregnant). Plus I have some sketchy looking ovaries which are also enlarged, so my doctor felt it wise to just get a look at everything rather than start slicing and dicing blindly without knowing how "healthy" my ovaries are.

But the fact of the matter is- I researched my options and found an expert in laproscopic surgery and it was only after she told me she couldn't do it for me that I put the issue to rest and yielded to the abdominal "option".

Greater than 85% of the hysterectomies done can be done laproscopically, and the sad fact is that most of the time they aren't.

It's a very confusing thing being told that you need a hysterectomy and it's unfortunate that in a vulnerable state, you find yourself having to strongly advocate for youself.

Just another unfortunate circumstance of our current healthcare paradigm.

So yeah. I wish my surgery could be anything but what it is going to be...but...I gave it my best shot and I have tremendous trust in my current doctor.

Maybe this information will help inform someone of their options? I hope so! If not- it was an indulgent soap-box moment. Heh heh.