My operation six months ago has given me a new lease of life. The doctor even said I have recovered well from the surgery. However, I’m starting to develop several signs and symptoms of menopause which I consider more debilitating than endometriosis and adenomyosis because bone pain limit my body movement. I couldn’t walk far and couldn’t perform heavy household chores. Even a simple washing of dishes renders me too tired to do other tasks at home. I could sit in front of the computer to write about ez drummer but only for a short period of time otherwise I would have lower back pain and finger and knuckles joint pain. I have yet to see a doctor to address my health problem. I hope it’s nothing serious.
A month ago today, I underwent surgery to remove my uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and cervix. The procedure, known as total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (TAHBSO), was necessary due to my severe case of endometriosis, adenomyosis, and adenomyoma.
My OB-GYNE said a hysterectomy was the best option to spare me the agony of prolonged and heavy menstruation, which had affected my quality of life for a long time. I also underwent hormonal therapy for six months, but even the expensive medication didn’t resolve the endometriosis.
Preparation
Before the operation, I researched hysterectomy, weighing its advantages and disadvantages. I found helpful tips from a website that caters to hysterectomy patients. After several weeks of deliberation, I finally decided it was time to undergo the procedure and improve my quality of life.
I’m thankful to have a supportive husband who made me feel at ease before the important day arrived.
Date of operation: December 13, 2016 – mumwrites.com
Operation Day
The operation went well and lasted for about two hours. Thankfully, it didn’t require a blood transfusion. Toward the end of the procedure, I believe I was awake, as I became aware of my surroundings. I even requested one of the nurses to allow me to see what the doctors had removed during the operation.
I was up and about a day after the surgery. The doctors advised me to start walking inside my room to hasten recovery. I only stayed in the hospital for five days.
Healing Well
Four weeks post-surgery, I feel I’m well on my way to a full recovery. I haven’t had a hard time recuperating because I followed my doctor’s advice. I prioritized rest while ensuring I moved around the house regularly. I started doing light chores in my second week. There may be occasional irritation and pain, but they are all bearable and subside within minutes.
Date taken: January 12, 2017 – mumwrites.com
Best Decision
Undergoing this operation has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I will never have to worry about excessive bleeding again or fear developing a related ailment in the future. Currently, my main concern is recurring joint pain. Since I am now in surgical menopause, joint pain and other health issues are expected.
Piece of Advice
Young women and those approaching menopause are more susceptible to conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis. If you are experiencing similar symptoms, consult a doctor. Reading about the disease can help you better understand it, but seeking professional medical advice is always the best course of action.
After years of suffering from prolonged and heavy menstruation and failed hormonal therapy to manage my endometriosis, adenomyosis, and recently, adenomyoma, I have decided to undergo surgery soon. My doctor said a hysterectomy is the only viable solution to stop the excessive bleeding. The surgeons will also remove a growing mass in my uterus.
Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
I will be bringing all my medical documents and meeting with my OB-GYNE this week to discuss the surgery in detail—including what to expect, the procedure itself, hospitalization expenses, and the operation schedule.
While waiting for the surgery, I need to stock up on the doctor-prescribed medications I am taking to ease the pain and control bleeding during my next menstrual cycle.
Endometriosis and adenomyosis affect both young women and those approaching menopause. I’m in my 40s, and I have struggled with this condition for several years. When I’m bleeding and in constant pain, it becomes difficult to function and carry out daily activities.
If you are experiencing similar symptoms, please consult a doctor. While reading medical journals and online references can help you better understand the condition, seeking professional medical advice is always the best course of action.
I’ll update this post once I have secured a date for my surgery.
