Has your doctor suggested a hysterectomy?

It is recommended that you get more than one opinion when your doctor suggests a hysterectomy.  Because a hysterectomy is a major decision that can affect other health issues, getting additional input from other medical professionals is important for your best outcome.

Make an appointment with a different surgeon, in a different practice, and even in a different town if that’s more comfortable for you. Take all records with you and ask for an exam. ASK: Is the first recommendation appropriate? ASK: Are there alternative treatments?

Get a third opinion. Keep researching exploring other opinions until you are satisfied and comfortable. A hysterectomy should be your last resort.

Consider these points:

  • Have I tried all the alternative treatments?
  • Are my symptoms so unbearable as to make my life a misery?
  • Will the operation relieve all my symptoms?
  • Will there be any unexpected consequences?
  • Am I prepared for an earlier menopause?
  • Do I still want to have children?
  • What will happen if I decide not to have a hysterectomy?

Three things can happen when you get a second opinion:

1. We get more information.

2. We may gain a new perspective.

3. We will gain peace of mind.

Even if you determine it is in your best health interest to have a hysterectomy, be sure to explore your “hysterectomy type” options. Most patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery. However not all surgeons are experienced enough in a minimally invasive – laparoscopic or vaginal – surgery and may offer you only “open” abdominal hysterectomy. Another appointment with a surgeon with minimally invasive surgery skills is essential for your best health outcome.

Find a Specialist

  • GYN Cancer? Find a GYN Oncologist.
  • Fibroids? Endometriosis? A specialist may have alternate treatments to offer to avoid hysterectomy.
  • Abdominal surgery? Consult a GYN surgeon. Most women are candidates for minimally invasive hysterectomy – today’s standard for GYN surgery.

The bottom line is this: You, the patient, should get all the information  before you agree to surgery. You cannot change your mind once the surgery is finished. There are no money back guarantees if the surgery is not the cure for your problem. Be smart for your best health outcome.