Why is it that a lot of doctors ask if you plan on having anymore children?

Why is it that a lot of drs. seem to ask if you plan on having anymore children after they have examined you with multiple fibroids? My OB/Gyn diagnosed me with multiple fibroids (different sizes) but only tells me that they are all located inside of my uterus. What does that mean? and my OB/Gyn wants me to do the watch and wait game. Is this a good idea to do? To make a long story short, I have every symptom that you can think of with the fibroids. I am 36 w/two children.

Dear Dona-
Most doctors ask that question because they suspect that the fibroids are in such an advanced stage that either a hysterectomy is necessary or removing the tumors could produce infertility.
You have received very traditional advice…the “wait and see” philosophy is old medicine. What are they waiting for?? Fibroids grow and spread with every hormone shift…if you are symptomatic, you should have them removed. The next step will probably be to recommend the hysterectomy..especially if you have no further interest in having children. We do not agree. The uterus is important for sexual response and hormone regulation….removing it can produce many complications that are difficult to treat effectively.
Our FAS procedure can remove all your fibroids and allow you to keep your uterus….the symptoms would be gone but you would remain “whole”. Dont wait…do some research and then make a decision. Good Luck

Thank you for your response. If I do not plan on having any more children….are there any other surgery options that can be taken instead of having my uterus yanked out…because I feel very close to mine?

Dear Dona-
You should ask your gyn if its possible to save your uterus…they may not understand why, but you have that right.
We can definitely help you….our FAS procedure would remove all your tumors and preserve your uterus but you would need to come to Los Angeles to see me.

Thank you Dr. del Junco Jr., for your response on May 21, 2003. Will my insurance pay for FAS procedure in Los Angeles (I would love to come to LA and have FAS perform the procedure)? What out-of-pocket expense will I endure? Thanks, dr. P.S. What does it mean when the OB/Gyn says that all of the fibroids (countless) are located inside of the Uterus and that he could not get to any of them when he performed the Laparoscopic? Does that mean limited surgery options?

Hi Dona-
In order to advise you financially, you will need to call my office…we need to call your insurance plan and verify specific benefits.
Laparoscopy is a limited field surgery ….only superficial fibroids are removed with this procedure. It is not possible to remove the deeper ones with this method…this is why we dont not advocate scopes for deep uterine fibroids..it doesnt address the disease effectively.
My nurse can help answer all your questions…give her
a call.