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 had a total hysterectomy about 8 years ago. I had hormone recpetor positive breast cancer and my periods stopped when going through treatment. When I completed treatment my periods came back. My oncologist recomended I have my ovaries removed. My gyn recomended I have a full hysterectomy as there were concerns after a biopsy with not only one ovary but my uterus as well. So after the surgery I ended up an emotional mess which my gyn talked about anit depressants, which I welcomed but have been able to ween off since. I have had the occassional hot flash here and there but not like the ones I am currently experiencing. I mention this to my oncologist and he says to check with my gyn. So I check with my gyn and she said check with the oncologist. I am confused. Is this to be expected or normal. It makes me worry because of the hormone recpetor positive breast cancer. I am going to check back with my oncologist as well as the breast surgeon as I see both of them every year.
It sounds like your doctors are giving you the run-around. It seems like your gyn could manage your hormone needs but may not want to take the responsibility due to your cancer history. Oncologists oftentimes recuse themselves after treatment is completed. But many gyns are known to do that too after hysterectomy. Mine refused to see me 4 months post-op when I was desperate for help. It sounds like this is a different gyn from the one who did your surgery though (based on your other post). Your primary care physician may be an option for Rx'ing hormones.
It seems if your BC wasn't estrogen receptor positive that you could take estrogen. The estrogen-only arm of the WHI showed lower risk of BC than the control group. It was the combined arm (estrogen + progestin) that showed a slightly higher risk.
It looks like you had a pulmonary embolism so that would be another possible contraindication to HRT. However, I think a doctor who's up on HRT would allow transdermal just not oral.
Hope this helps!