For the past five years, I’ve been dealing with grief, depression and PTSD after my gynecologist of 20 years rushed me into surgery for a suspicious looking ovarian cyst. Although the cyst was benign, he and two gynecology residents proceeded to remove my healthy uterus and other ovary. This was against the recommendation of the oncologist to only remove the one ovary. Since these organs are essential to lifelong health, I’ve suffered many physical, mental, emotional, and sexual adverse effects.

The inability to get some semblance of justice from the medical board and/or my insurance company made me feel victimized all over again.

It’s very difficult to talk to others for several reasons. For one, most people don’t understand that this common surgery can be so devastating. And frankly, it’s embarrassing to admit I had my sex organs removed! For the first year, it was hard to even pursue getting help because I didn’t even want to leave the house!

Therapy and a depression support group have helped quite a bit (along with hormones). But I don’t think I’ll ever be “over” this betrayal of trust by a once respected doctor and the lifelong consequences it will have on my health.