Hysterectomy Support Group
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, usually done by a gynecologist. Hysterectomy may be total (removing the body and cervix of the uterus) or partial (also called supra-cervical). Although there are conservative alternatives, hysterectomy is performed for uterine fibroids, pelvic pain, pelvic relaxation, heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding, and cancer.
I am recovering from a full hysterectomy about two months ago. I had my first ovary removed when I was 20 due to chronic cysts and endometriosis. It has been a constant struggle since then resulting in undergoing a checmically indused menopause twice. In April of this year I developed cysts on my other ovary and had a lot of pain in my abdominal area. After having 7 cysts rupture in three weeks my doctor and I decided to proceed with the surgery. I just turned 29 and dont have kids. Ive had a hard time with the recovery expereincing several complications. My anxiety and depression have been constant since I started my recovery making it impossible to focus on other things. I have been back to work for less than a week after two months off and am extrememly overwhelemed with that and school. I am overwhelemed with thoughts of the experiences I am going to miss out on. I am sad all the time and cry on a regular basis. I have been on both depression and anxiety meds since three weeks into my reovery and am on hormones. I cant help but feel like I no longer have a purpose in lide and where I know that its an unlrealistic thought it doesnt make the feelings go away. Every time I see an expecting mother or young child I feel myself slip into this hopeless hole that I cant get out of. I am going to be seeking therapy treatment to cope with these feelings and have a great support group, however, no one can really understand what it is I am going through.
At 40 (last year) I had to have an abdominal hysterectomy due to endometriosis and I've never had children. I constantly feel like I've been robbed of one of the most important dreams I've had all my life. I constantly think about it and I'm constantly reminded when I see expecting mothers or Mom's with children.Even worse, now all my friends are getting pregnant. I want to be happy for them, but it's so hard when I'm so sad and it reminds me of what I can't have. In addition, my husband does not understand and is not supportive. I've never felt so alone in my life. I too struggle with what my purpose is in life.
I am in therapy on medication and even started taking a yoga class. However, I'm still in a state of depression all the time. I cry just about every day. I don't know how to make the pain and sadness stop.