Several years ago this would have been a reasonable fear. Many doctors really did push women towards this surgery. Hysterectomies were often performed as the primary treatment for heavy bleeding. Although effective, many women could have benefited from trying other non-surgical treatment routes. Today there are many options for treatment. Many of these are just as effective as hysterectomy with controlling heavy bleeding.
Unfortunately there are still doctors who push their patients in the surgical direction. But the woman knowledgeable of the treatment options open to her can engage in the conversation with her healthcare provider. Then together they can decide the best course to resolve the heavy vaginal bleeding.
How to Avoid Hysterectomy
Find a Doctor You Can Trust
This is perhaps the most critical requirement. Your treatment is going to come out of the interactions that you have with your physician. You need to choose someone with whom you feel comfortable. If you don’t have a gynecologist you can trust, you might look for a referal from a friend. Or from your primary care provider. Be very choosy though. You want someone to help you through this crucial evaluation and decision making process.
Some characteristics to look for:
- Good communicator
- Listens and seeks to understand your concerns
- Has resources to help you understand what you are going through
- Already actively uses non-surgical treatments for heavy bleeding in her practice
Be Engaged in the Conversation
It’s a great idea to say early in your conversation that you prefer not to have a hysterectomy. This sets the stage for how the conversation will proceed. Most doctors will appreciate the feedback. Don’t be passive in the conversation. Be active, engage. If you don’t understand what your doctor has said, ask him to put it in other words that you can understand. Expect the workup to last several visits. This is a good thing. Use the time in between visits to research more, think about what you have heard, and gather your questions
Do Your Homework
You can use heavybleedinghelp.com to become knowledgeable of all the treatments appropriate for you. Remember though, it is your doctor who will give you advice as to which treatments are best for you. Our site is designed not to give advice but to provide information for you to get prepared for the heavy bleeding talk with your doctor.
Need a Hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy may be the best option for some women. If you have found a trustworthy doctor, did your homework and engaged in the conversation, this treatment may be the conclusion that you both come to. Some women feel comfortable going forward with the procedure at this point. However, in some cases it might be beneficial to get a second opinion. A good doctor won’t be threatened by this and may even encourage it.
A word of caution. A difference of opinion between the original and second doctors may leave you in a difficult situation. But remember, it is ultimately your decision. Gather all the resources you need to make your decision and move forward. Your life and health depend on it.
