QuestionMy wife (47 years old) just underwent hysterectomy due to endometriosis (stage 4). Next week her gynecologist is calling her to review the case and wants to put her on HRT.
since the operation she has been having hot flushes a few times a day. She is a little uncomfortable about it but says it's bearable. She doesn't seem to have any other complains. But to me she does look weak (due to the operation?) otherwise she is ok.
My question are:
1. should she take HRT? If yes for how long? (since HRT is linked to cancer recently).
2. Can she be off HRT from now itself (start)? Will this be a better choice? ( before the operation she was already on her path to menopause. Her periods were irregular and very heavy sometimes. The doctor who examined her before the operation said she will enter menapause in 3 years time)
3. Are there any web sites that she can access?
4. Is there anything that she need to be aware?
5. Can life be normal to her again?
6. Is there anything as a husband that I need to know?
Thank you very much. yours response is well appreciated.
AnswerDear Aparow:
I am glad to hear from a Male who is concerned about his wife's health. Just being there for her and being curious and involved in her healthcare is VERY COMMENDIBLE!!!! The Dr. may have meant she would only have to take HRT (like prempro) for 3 years, since it is so close to her regular menopause. I had a TOTAL HYSTERECTOMY in 1994 and I still have to take prempro or I have 20 or so Hot Flashes a day and TERRIBLE (soak the sheets) NIGHTSWEATS. But, I am 38 years old. Estrogen FEEDS the ENDOMETRIOSIS so, I would shye away from as much as possible. The website I use is Endometriosis Association. The Endometriosis Research Center and any others I can find. Yes, life gets "NORMAL" again but, it is different. Menopause is just what it sounds like. I hope I have helped a little. If your wife or you want to talk some more about this stuff, my email is watkins1024@aol.com.
Best of Wishes!!!
Sincerely,
Lori Jean Watkins
Central Missouri Support Group Leader
for the Endometriosis Association
