Fibroids and Hysterectomy –Day 4 of Fibroid Awareness Week!

This week has been very special to me posting these online initiatives for all women and mothers that suffer from uterine fibroids. I hope in some way, each of you has been able to learn more about your body, your health goals and any treatment options you may be considering. I want you to know that I have been there and you are not alone in your quest for freedom from fibroid tumors. One of the treatment options that I have gently touched on in the past is the option of hysterectomy. For some women, hysterectomy is a personal choice after years of dealing with fibroids, endometriosis, uterine prolapse or heavy menstrual cycles. For other women, like me, it is not a choice at all but a necessary surgery to maintain a quality of life and move forward in health without further complications. For other women, hysterectomy is a life saving surgery, especially for those that suffer from gynecologic malignancies. Whatever avenue you find yourself at a cross roads with, learning more about the different types of hysterectomy and what to expect before and after surgery will help you feel less overwhelmed and more confident.
One of my very favorite websites (and a go to tool for my own questions and concerns) is the website Hyster Sisters. Hyster Sisters (http://www.hystersisters.com/) is a premier woman to woman support community, offering up to date hysterectomy information, support forums, recovery assistance and news articles. Reading the patient stories and step by step guides really helped me prepare mentally for my surgery, and after my surgery, it was a great way to chart my progress and ask questions. I have to admit that even though I felt supported by my wonderful husband, family and friends, it was a different type of support that I received from Hyster Sisters. The support I received was from women who had been there first hand, and it seemed to me all the women were cheerleaders for one another.
If you are considering hysterectomy as a surgery option, I encourage you to visit Hyster Sisters, browse their user friendly website, and sign up to join. Without taking the place of your doctor, the website offers good advice and a comforting community. It’s free to become a member and believe me, once you start visiting the website you will be addicted! They also have a Facebook page for quick questions and discreet online support. I don’t know what I would have done without such a wonderful resource, and I hope if you are faced with hysterectomy that it will offer the same to you.