Endometriosis Support Group
Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. A major symptom of endometriosis is pain, mostly in the lower abdomen, lower back, and pelvic area.
Hi Ladies...In no way do I wish to frighten you, but I would feel remiss if I did not share this train of thought with you regarding Lap-Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy/Oopherectomy:
In my case, the endometriosis had consumed my vaginal/rectal canal, as well as every organ in my abdomen. I was not told there was a possibility of incurring irreparable damage by exiting my organs (uterus, ovaries, tubes) through my vagina. I was told the LAVH/LAVO would be less invasive with faster recovery than traditional incision. In my youth and ignorance I followed "the yellow brick road" and found myself mutilated, as my vaginal cuff was incorrectly sutured into itself. I had "proud flesh" that had to be cauterized several times in my vaginal canal.
If I had it to do over again, I'd choose larger incision and keep my vagina out of the process, if possible. I have extreme vaginal/rectal pain every day of my life. My first surgeon was incompetent (but I'd bet he's having good pain-free sex---something I've forgotten.
~~Pup
In my case, the endometriosis had consumed my vaginal/rectal canal, as well as every organ in my abdomen. I was not told there was a possibility of incurring irreparable damage by exiting my organs (uterus, ovaries, tubes) through my vagina. I was told the LAVH/LAVO would be less invasive with faster recovery than traditional incision. In my youth and ignorance I followed "the yellow brick road" and found myself mutilated, as my vaginal cuff was incorrectly sutured into itself. I had "proud flesh" that had to be cauterized several times in my vaginal canal.
If I had it to do over again, I'd choose larger incision and keep my vagina out of the process, if possible. I have extreme vaginal/rectal pain every day of my life. My first surgeon was incompetent (but I'd bet he's having good pain-free sex---something I've forgotten.
~~Pup
I don't mean to be a fear monger=( Hindsight is most often 20/20...My first surgeon was incompetent at best. (He is now the Director of GYN @ our state's largest Woman's Hospital 20 years later.)
After my surgery, I was having acute pain in my vagina. He did not address this. It continued until my 6 week follow-up at which time he examined me and told me he saw no problem. I asked for a second opinion that day. I went down 2 floors to another GYN who examined me. He basically said that upon removing my uterus, ovary and fallopian tube, the surgeon had "accidentally" left part of the tube sewn into the vaginal cuff. He said there was "proud flesh" (infection) at the incision that needed to be cauterized. He also told me I'd need a second surgery to "correct it".
I had a second surgery and a 3rd and final....but the damage was done. Who knows if the disease or the surgery left me with all this pain? I am convinced the endometriosis continues to ravage my insides causing horrific bowel issues.
Vans...I'm optimistic about your upcoming surgery...especially the fact that you can take the HRT. It sounds like you have done your research and have a surgeon you feel good about.
MY experience makes me see things more skewed. My first surgeon was a jerk. He was not qualified to accurately diagnose the extent of the disease, much less perform the surgery. Yet again I stress that he is still "heralded" as one of the best.
~~Pup