WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for November, 1997: Re: 2nd opinion questions for fibroids

Re: 2nd opinion questions for fibroids

From: Kelly (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sun, 16 Nov 1997 18:22:40 -0600 (CST)

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In reply to: K.: "2nd opinion questions for fibroids"

At Sat, 15 Nov 1997, K. wrote: >
>Due to heavy bleeding and pain for 5 fibroids 2cm. or less, my Dr. put
>me on depo-provera to stop bleeding. This made matters worse and he did
>a diagnostic lap. He said that I have fibroids on the inside, outside
>and within the uterus wall and that to try to remove them would be
>dangerous. He scheduled me for a vaginal hysterectomy before we even
>discussed this.

Didn't even ask if that was a good date for you? Not to mention the minor detail of what your wishes are?

He said that I would be home having dinner that night >and could return to work the next week if I felt like it. I have never
>had the opportunity to have children and he probably thinks that because
>I am in my 30's that I never will. I hope this not so.

Shoot, I was in med school until 26.5, residency until 30.5, didn't even meet my husband until I was 33.5, got married at 34, didn't even think about having kids until I was 35, and if I'm lucky I'll have my first child at almost 38.

I will be going >to a teaching hospital in a major city for a 2nd opinion in a few weeks.

Excellent idea -- your doctor hasn't even begun to explore your options with you.

>What should I bring with me?

All your records, including operative report and ultrasound reports.

What are the important questions to ask? Do >you think I can find another way to stop the pain and bleeding without
>risking my life?

That second part "do you think....without risking my life" is an excellent question in and of itself. Ask about all options, including medical therapy like Lupron and surgical therapy like a myomectomy. Ask about risks, benefits and success rates of each.

Remember it is your body and although some of hte options may not be able to guarantee as complete relief from bleeding and pain like a hysterectomy may, you have to decide what's best for you. If you choose less agressive therapy and it doesn't work, you can always choose a hysterectomy later; if you have a hysterectomy now, your uterus cannot be replaced in 2 years should you desire to bear a child at that time.

-- Kelly Shanahan, MD, FACOG S. Lake Tahoe, CA

note: Opinions here are for educational purposes only. This information is not intended to supplant the need for you to consult with your own physician. It cannot take the place of a face to face consultation and examination.

Next message: Sheila: "Re: Endo, fibroids and BCPs"
Previous message: Sheila: "Re: Postponing Period"
In reply to: K.: "2nd opinion questions for fibroids"

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