Closed Cervix & Endometriosis Treatment Options: Hysterectomy Considerations

Question
Went to MD for thermal balloon therapy to end painful periods(I am 44, a grandmother, and do not want any more children), MD could not perform procedure due to a closed cervix. He wants to admit me to hospital to put me to sleep so he can get thru my cervix as the scarring is very extensive.  In your opinion, do you think a hysterectomy would be a good choice for me?  He did not mention it, but I am VERY interested in that option.

Answer
Dear Karen,

Hmmmm... that is a very personal decision. I actually was considering the same thing about 2 years ago. My best friend had had one about 10 years ago and has never regretted it. But... my mother talked me out of it and my husband went instead.  :-)

However, my situation did not involve very painful cycles, so that is a BIG difference for you. If you are going to have to undergo a surgical procedure with anesthesia anyway... I don't know. It may be something you should ask your doctor about.

I do know that when I was considering it, I was not in any way considering having them remove my ovaries. The whole idea of hormone replacement therapy is not appealing to me. Complications of hysterectomy, as with any surgery, would include blood clots, infection, excessive bleeding or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Other complications sometimes reported after a hysterectomy include changes in sex drive, weight gain, constipation, and pelvic pain. Hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause can occur if the ovaries are removed. Women who have both ovaries removed and who do not take estrogen replacement therapy run an increased risk for heart disease and osteoporosis (a condition that causes bones to be brittle). Women with a history of psychological and emotional problems before the hysterectomy are more likely to experience psychological difficulties after the operation.

Again, discuss the option with your doctor as an alternative to the surgery for thermal balloon therapy. If you are going to have the additional hospitalization costs and are going to be anesthetized anyway AND are very interested in that as an option, you should bring it up and discuss it.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda