This is a reality for many women post hysterectomy. The uterus is a muscle that responds rythmically with intercourse producing orgasm for many women. Once the uterus is removed women routinely report lack of sexual response, sensation or desire. Many gynecologists refuse to address this topic or accept this fact. This week we had a patient call the office in tears asking why her gyn had repeatedly denied any association between sexual dysfunction and hysterectomy and yet she was now void of any response or sensation after removing her uterus. She was angry and desperate! This serious and potentially life changing side effect is a reality for many many women. Before removing your uterus…do your research. Hysterectomy can and may alter your life and not in the way you anticipate.
Treating fibroids with Lupron
This is a medication routinely used to reduce heavy bleeding associated with fibroid tumor disease. As a secondary benefit it will temporarily shrink fibroids due to its anti-estrogen effect. Basically, this injection reduces estrogen production by the ovaries, and should be limited to a 6 months course of treatment. Symptoms associated with Lupron can be the same as menopause…hot flashes, depression, difficulty sleeping, and headaches. Once discontinuing the drug, the ovaries should once again begin to produce estrogen resulting in regrowth of fibroids. Lupron is a “temporary fix” and does not produce long term positive results.
The Complications of a Myomectomy-a Patient’s Story
This is a sad but very honest posting. We recently had a prospective patient that decided not come for our surgery because we would not guarantee fertility after fibroid tumor surgery. No surgeon can give that guarantee. We told her our philosophy was to remove her tumors without leaving any intentionally, offer a video viewing of her surgery to ensure we did everything possible, with no blood transfusions and no hysterectomy….she elected to go to a local gyn who promised all the same things AND fertility. Sadly, we heard the day after surgery that the bleeding was to intense they had to stop the surgery and left several large tumors….although transfusion was suggested and warranted, the gyn elected not to. The patient had to stay three extra days due to dangerously low blood pressures and dizziness…had multiple fainting spells once discharged home and was unable to have visitors for 2 weeks due to weakness. They have recommended IVF treatments to attempt fertility in a few months. This is just bad medicine….this patient was promised something that could not be delivered…and suffered in the process. Fertility is once again in question and she will no doubt require more fibroid tumor surgery. Make sure you know what your surgeon is capable of..the procedure you are having and the potential complications.
Treating Fibroid Tumors with MRI Guided Focused Ultrasound Therapy
MRgFUS is a relatively new technique in treating fibroid tumors. The MRI technology is used to locate the tumor and ultrasound beams are passed through the skin to ablate or destroy the fibroid. This is a minimally invasive procedure, however long term effectiveness is still being determined. The concern is whether the entire tumor can be destroyed and then what becomes of the decaying and necrotic tissue? Medical studies have shown fibroid tumors can turn malignant when they decay and begin to die. I still believe removing the tumors surgically (female alternative surgery) is the best treatment for positive long term outcomes. Do your research before consenting to any surgery.
Alternative Therapies for Womens Health
This past week in the LA Times there was an article in the Health Section regarding the increased reliance upon alternative therapies ie accupuncture, herbs, supplements, massage therapies etc. These therapies can be excellent for treating many ancillary symptoms but often do not get to the core problem behind the diagnosis. Always keep in mind, treating the root of the problem is the best way to go. Many women call our office with symptoms of heavy bleeding, painful periods, back pain who have been offered medications and/or therapies that do not address the reason for the symptoms….(ie fibroids, adenomyosis or endometriosis. ) Remember, seek out the solution that has the best outcome for your diagnosis, not just the symptoms….and dont delay treatment.
