For five years I have suffered unnecessarily with periods and all that went with them. I describe the last couple of years before my hysterectomy as having a disability. I had to plan around each month - when to take my holiday from work - what clothes to wear - not organising social events - did I have enough tampax, sanitary towels and pain killers for the next month - it was a horrible time for me particularly and also my family. It wasn't just the bleeding that was inconvenient - my skin erupted each month, I bloated horribly and my breast size fluctuated two cup sizes - not to mention the discomfort. But because the disability came from periods - something that all women have to contend with - I just got on with it - hoping next month would be easier.
I had lunch with a girlfriend end of the summer - who informed me a year ago she had had a hysterectomy and felt re-born - a new women. The rest of lunch consisted of my finding out the minuetest detail of what went on.
That afternoon I researched and made an appointment to see Mr Louden - Gyneachoice.
Rarely today do I feel content with service received in any sector - but as soon as I set foot into Mr Louden's office I felt that this was the right thing to be doing. After a long and detailed appointment - my options were presented to me. I drove home knowing exactly what it was I wanted to do - I had had a marvellous experience - I had been dealt with by an expert.
Three weeks later my appointment was booked for a full hysterectomy. I had never been more sure of a decision in my life. Something that had been said throughout one of the appointments was -
Imagine your life with no periods and your hormones stable at one level".... Yes please!!
I am now ten weeks after my operation, and life is fabulous - I look well, feel energetic all the time - sleep properly - feel sexier than I have in years.
I was fortunate to have had key hole surgery - so no major incision - my tummy still looks like my own - everything else has healed beautifully. My breasts are the best bit - no more hard, hurting vein ridden lumps - just funny old bosoms!!! There was a fair amount of planning around the time off - but - a summer holiday needs military precision planning - so this really wasn't any worse.
I am 44 years old - I didn't want to be in the prime of my life having to manage any more with something I could so easily get sorted. I'm afraid I am now a bit of an apostle when it comes to this procedure - any women who are in any doubt - get it done - life is too jolly short!!
Sarah
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