When science is widely seen as an integral part of what makes us human, our own connection to the cosmos will be significantly strengthened; truly, science is the thread that weaves us all into the fabric of reality.
Brian Greene (The Elegant Universe)
Me? Exceedingly inquisitive. Even as a young geek (AKA geekling), “why” was a favorite word. In my opinion, this has always been a good thing. My background includes Biology and Biotechnology with an extreme interest in Genetic Medicine and Pharmacology. Nope, not a doctor. Just an odd patient. After crawling into a doctor’s office with severe symptoms from my uterine fibroid tumors, I decided to ask a lot of questions, find answers, and blog about it. I hope you find my observations both interesting and useful.
Please read my Mission Statement.
If you want a quick peek at EclecticGeek and what’s on her mind, read these two entries:
How are you using your fibroid voice?
Wondering about that “taking over the world” reference listed in EclecticGeek’s Master Plan?
I love cartoons. One of my favorites is “Pinky & The Brain“. The Brain constantly schemes to achieve world domination. I just had to refer to it here.
Still want to know more about me? Keep reading.
I turned 40 in 2006. Not long after turning 30, my periods became outrageous. Heavy bleeding and bad cramps. Explained to my Gynecologist that because of family history, my problems were probably fibroid-related. Too bad they could not be detected by ultrasound at that point. Doctor wouldn’t listen so I walked away figuring I could deal with it on my own. So, for YEARS, I dealt with it.
Of course, the symptoms worsened and after passing enormous clots, I thought I should seek medical assistance. Got another ultrasound in 2004 and (surprise, surprise) fibroids were detected. I was so angry from being right that, once again, I walked away even though my new doctor was really trying to help. Yes, I can be stubborn and crazy sometimes. Continued to cope until I felt so weak and sick that I crawled back into my doctor’s office at the end of 2005. Anemia? Oh, yes! Hemoglobin was 6.7. I was put on iron supplements and sent to a Gynecologist. At that point, I knew the fibroids had to go. They were producing such severe blood loss that I was now non-functional.
I am so fortunate to have great doctors. We came up with a plan and I really mean we. I wanted the Uterine Fibroid Embolization procedure but had a couple of fibroids that would possibly cause problems. They were submucosal and produced a risk of infection post-UFE if they died and detached but did not pass from my body. That’s why I needed a Hysteroscopic Myomectomy first. The fibroids were on the inside so my Gynecologist used the opening nature created. No additional holes were necessary. He just shaved down those fibroids (~60-70%) using the Versapoint system.
My anemia was so bad that I couldn’t have the surgery until it improved. I was put on Lupron and Chromagen® Forte iron pills before the myomectomy to help. So, three months of Lupron shots + iron supplements (February, March, April 2006), one Hysteroscopic Myomectomy (June 7, 2006), and one UFE (July 18, 2006) later, I really do feel great.
The catalyst for me was realizing I could no longer function with the fibroids. They were impacting me physically, mentally, and spiritually. It was just too high a price to continue to pay. I felt faint and weak all day long every single day. I knew I had to do something to move forward and I definitely could not go back. I gathered information, weighed the options, and embraced a decision. It was not always easy but I do not regret any choice I made to improve my state of being. I have not felt this healthy (physically, mentally, and spiritually) in years. It is wonderful!
EclecticGeek
Need to reach me?
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July 21, 2006 at 11:33 am
Although I know this process probably had its moments of discomfort, thanks for having a fabulous sense of humor in your posts. I am glad you are recovering quickly without complication. I am scheduled for surgery Aug. 7 for hysto. I have 5 uterine fibroids. I have been googling to learn what is out there to learn. This is how I got started reading your blog. Once again Thank You!
July 21, 2006 at 8:01 pm
lumpy lass,
Thank you so much for the kind words and for reading my blog. I try to keep it light as well as informational because sometimes fibroids can just be so overwhelming.
Haven’t posted much about hysterectomies but I will in the near future. If you feel up to it, feel free to post a comment about your experience.
Best wishes and positive thoughts on your upcoming hysto.
[Edited to add: I now have hysterectomy posts -
Does anyone have a hysterectomy experience to share?
How are you feeling after your Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
How are you feeling after your Abdominal Hysterectomy?]
August 4, 2006 at 10:50 am
Not quite sure how I stumbled onto your blog, but do you know much about oral medications that claim to reduce the size of fibroids?
August 4, 2006 at 1:49 pm
Good question. I plan on creating a treatment page here that will include information on alternative therapies.
[Edited to add: I've created a separate post that talks about alternative treatments and one that discusses fibroid treatment options.]
The National Institutes of Health has a center that deals with alternative medicine – the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Lots of info there but here are two pages I find particularly helpful:
1) Are You Considering Using Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)?
2) 10 Things To Know About Evaluating Medical Resources on the Web
What do I do?
If I see this on a site:
and a search on Google Scholar or PubMed produces NO studies conducted using the product, I cross it off my list.
I totally believe in alternative medicine but I hold it up to the same standard as traditional medicine. Prove that it works (safely and effectively) and I’ll use it.
Glad that you stumbled here.
Thanks for your visit!
August 4, 2006 at 6:19 pm
I cannot thank you enough for this page. I’ve been trying to tough out escalating symptoms for about 3 years, hoping that perimenopause would progress to menopause with due speed. Finally I had sonography done yesterday. The first sonographer couldn’t find one of my ovaries during the abdominal scan because of a fibroid. A second sonographer found it, and the radiologist who did the transvaginal scan concluded that I only have fibroid but it is large. I moved a few years ago to this area and have had only one appointment with a gynecologist here. I hope the follow-up will go better than the first appointment did, but I wonder if you be able to recommend a specialist in the Baltimore area?
August 4, 2006 at 7:18 pm
Thank you so much for your visit. I’m glad you found the site helpful.
[Edited to add: I've created a separate post on finding good local fibroid doctors.]
I don’t know a particular specialist in the Baltimore area but I would suggest trying Johns Hopkins Hospital. They have a Fibroid Center in Lutherville (hope this is pretty close to Baltimore) that offers several fibroid treatment options. Here are the links:
The Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System
Johns Hopkins Fibroid Center at Greenspring Station
I know what it’s like to try and tough it out. Hope this information will help. Best wishes to you with your follow-up and as you continue your journey.
August 21, 2006 at 1:41 pm
Great site, so glad you came up in Google! Where are you located? I am from Manhattan in NYC and am having a hard time finding a good doc. I have too big fibroids on the outside of the uterus, these two darn things are making me pee all the time, considering a myomectomy but very nervous about surgery and the recovery process since it will probably be a fairly big cut?? Anyone know of a good doctor in New york city??
August 21, 2006 at 7:38 pm
Thank you. Glad you found me! I reside in Virginia.
[Edited to add: I've created a separate post on finding good fibroid doctors.]
Don’t know of a specific doctor in New York City but I found a few links:
American Medical Association Doctor Finder
Have to do that disclaimer to get to the search page. Just put in “Obstetrics & Gynecology” and your zip code to do the search. Tried this earlier and you may need to click on a few names that come up. Not all physicians have the same amount of info in their listing.
Four medical schools:
Fibroid Center of New York (Columbia University Medical Center)
Mount Sinai School of Medicine Physician Search
New York University School of Medicine and Hospitals Center Doctor Finder
Cornell University Medical College OB/GYN Department
OK. Hopefully, these will help or maybe a fellow New Yorker will stop by.
Anyway, try not to stress too much over the surgery. Thanks for commenting about your experience.
August 26, 2006 at 6:02 pm
Sad but true that misery loves company, I am reading with great interest all of these notes. In anyone’s experience, do you have problems eating many foods? I feel sick after so many things lately. I have 3 large fibroids that seem to keep growing, now joining to 8cm (uterus size). The head of Columbia U. Medical in this field (family friend) said over the phone that I should have a hysterectomy, given I have history with a mother who had the same and eventually died of ovarian cancer (may or may not be related) but it sounds so drastic. Thoughts from anyone?
August 27, 2006 at 2:50 am
We are all in this together. I’m glad you find the site helpful. I’ve never had any food issues but hopefully, we can get some thoughts from others. Since you have access to a family friend associated with a very good medical school and knows about your family history, I would continue communicating with this person first for more information. Ask questions. Seek a second opinion if that would make you feel more comfortable.
I know a hysterectomy sounds drastic but sometimes it is the best option. Find out what you can. I’m including a link to the Mayo Clinic site. It has hysterectomy information if you want to know more. Has other fibroid info, too.
Hysterectomy Information (Mayo Clinic)
Thanks for talking about your experience.
[Edited to add: I now have a post that discusses treatment options.]
September 7, 2006 at 12:12 pm
The Mayo clinic is also doing a new procedure called focused ultrasound – there may be other places across the country that do it as well just search “focused ultrasound” and see what articles come up. It is not covered by insurance yet, but sounds very promising for a non-invasive solution to shrinking fibroids. I myself have HUGE fibroids, but little symptoms aside from an enormous belly. In 1998 I was diagnosed with fibroids – they weren’t even detectable and the solution I was given was a hysterectomy. My periods are heavy for only the first day and they are normal after that. I do not get cramps at all. I have some lower back pain if I wear heels too high for a long period of time, but is that the fibroids pressing on my spin or is that every woman? So now I wear 2″ heels max and I’m fine. I have been through 5 doctors, all insist I have a hysterectomy. When I mention alternative solutions they have either “never heard of them” or arebn’t comfortable reccommending them. Currently I am no candidate for anything other than a hysterectomy as they have grown over the years and myomectomy and that embolizm thing aren’t options. What about the Evista research, surely someone must have a doctor that is willing to try that (says it can shrink fibroids 50% in 6 months with no side effects) – my doctor “isn’t comfortable” prescribing it.
I wasted a ton of money taking enzymes – maybe it would be better for someone with smaller fibroids. It did nothing for me and cost a fortune, don’t believe all the hype on the web site that promotes them and has women writing in with miraculous results. I didn’t have them and I took up to 30 per day as recommended.
Gotta run for now. NIce blog, I hope more women find it and write in as I am sure I am not alone in my search for alternative to hysterectomy – as long as I’m not bleeding to death and find good elastic waist pants, I can wait. It’s the elastic waist pants that will eventually kill (my sense of style). : )
September 7, 2006 at 4:09 pm
Sally,
Just some food for thought………what kind of doc are you seeing? Regular GYN’s, endocrinologist? or fertility/fibroid specialst. See I ask because my regular GYN (bless her heart she ordered the MRI right away) did not have the experience to deal with fibroids so she sent me to a specialst (GYN endocrinologist that dealt with fibroids). This GYN endocrinologist thought she she could do the surgery – we were all set for surgery and she declined – she refered me to a super specialist (OBGYN/ endocrinologist/fertility/fibroid) who just removed – via myomectomy (cause I still wanna have kids) the ‘broids – the Fab 6. I though fertility guy – would have never thought of fertility specialst for fibroids?? But know I see – he was used to removing fibroids without doing hysto’s. Not sure how big your fibroid(s) are but doc removed my grapefruits -each approx 10 cm x 5 xm x 7 xm. ( 2 pedunculated -stalks; 3 subserous – in the uterine lining) and the bad boy of the bunch, the heavy period trouble maker – baby making stopper – Mr Submucous (partially in the uterine cavity and partially in the wall of the uterus). Had a few tiny Intramurals but didnt even count those…
My point is -If you have not already – look for specialist who remove fibroids all the time…my doc has been removing fibroids and preserving fertility (he does not really do hysterectomys unless really medically necessary) for YEARS
September 7, 2006 at 3:52 pm
I created a post about the focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) procedure ExAblate based on a TIME magazine article I stumbled upon – New treatment uses sound waves to shrink uterine fibroid tumors. The post includes links to the TIME magazine article as well as the ExAbate company (Insightec) where women can find out where it’s available.
Haven’t researched much on Evista (raloxifene) but I will add it to my list (that grows longer each day) of things I must post about. Visted the company web site and there are some side effects with Evista (as with every drug). Glancing over a couple of clinical abstracts it seems as though the observed side effects were limited. That’s encouraging. Thanks for raising the topic.
Will post about alternative therapies soon. I get many questions asking about pills that shrink fibroids so I really appreciate you sharing your experience about that.
[Edited to add: Finally created a separate post on alternative therapies.]
I’m in the process of organizing things here so women will be better able to post their thoughts or information on different topics. Trying to make things more interactive. You can check out the primitive beginning here.
Thank you for visiting and commenting. You are not alone in your quest. Women are searching for different options. For some, it is hysterectomy. For others, it is not. I’m trying to present information on every treatment I can find. I want women to be comfortable (or at least more comfortable) with any treatment option they choose.
Maybe I’ll even have a post about elastic waist pants.
September 12, 2006 at 7:45 pm
After reading your comment fibroid free I think I need to see a specialist. Anyone know of any in Southern California? the L.A. or Orange County area?
September 13, 2006 at 9:19 am
I feel its crucial to find the right doctor with THE RIGHT SKILL LEVEL to talk about all the options that are available to you to treat fibroids be it natural, non-invasive or surgical. Gone are the days of hystorectomy as the only option for a woman. For me -my option was only one -abdominal myomectomy since I will want to have children…but there are a lot of choices. I think I “Googled” every website that poped up and informed myself about the procedure. Often doctors wont recommend one choice over the over because they themseles do not have the SKILL level to perform a certain choice. IF you are informed about the choices and bring them up and your doc “poo poo’s” you with “No I dont think that is somethign we can do” ask WHY NOT is it becuase you are not able to perform it or???”….well…then…it may not be the doc for you.
Be aware of all your choices, be informed about them, gather information, ask the doctor questions, ask your doctor about their abilities and how long have they been treating fibroids, suggest treatment options you want to talk about or get the doc opinion on because in the end it really is YOUR choice. Just becuse the doctor suggest something…does not mean you must do it…..
good luck
September 13, 2006 at 3:09 pm
Ladylasil:
Glad fibroid free’s words helped. I think seeing a specialist is definitely the way to go.
[Edited to add: I created a separate post on finding good local fibroid doctors.]
I am not familar with the Southern California area but I will list a couple Doctor Finder sites:
American Medical Association Doctor Finder
Society of Interventional Radiology (for embolization)
Not sure if these are near you:
University of California Los Angeles OB/GYN Department
University of Southern California OB/GYN Department
Hope these are useful.
fibroid free:
This is why I started the site. Wanted to get the information out there. I am all about information and having options and making informed decisions. Fortunately, I had a good doctor who told me everything available. NEVER pushed one option over another. He listened to me and was supportive of MY choice.
Thanks for the great words.
September 13, 2006 at 5:44 pm
Hey!! glad to share good positive thoughts… but the Thanks are to you (ie smart women with fibroids LOL) and your site….and WOW the fibroid forum!!! That “where are the geeks” map will be covered soon with red dots!!!
September 13, 2006 at 6:29 pm
You’re welcome. I’m excited about the Fibroid Forum! Called it the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) page at first but I don’t think very many people knew about. I’ve set it up like a forum so a forum it shall be. Now, women can read through the questions, communicate with each other, and comment until their fingers cramp up. Looking forward to more red dots! LOL
September 16, 2006 at 6:38 pm
You’ve created a super fine blog that’s so useful. It’s chock full of all the right stuff and your resilience as a feisty woman shines clear through every post you make.
To those women who are hesitant about having a hysterectomy when one has been recommended I want to say it’s sensible to set the requirement in each individual case to be sure that it’s the way to go for you. In my case, my husband and I already knew that without doubt we did not want to have children. I had a partial hysterectomy in my 20’s and I never looked back; I saved myself from enduring years of suffering. Also being child-free is quite different from being child-less. And in our case “less” meant “more”.
All my best to all.
September 17, 2006 at 3:06 pm
When I first started, I really thought the blog would be one-sided. I am amazed that this has developed into such a two-way street. We all have experiences to share and much to learn from each other.
Many, many thanks for your words of encouragement to me (as I try to make the site even more helpful) and to my visitors (as they make choices in their lives).
Best wishes to you.
P.S. Maybe I’ll start another blog called “The Feisty Geek”.
September 22, 2006 at 9:32 am
Just came out of hospital yesterday after uterine arterial embolisation to kill off about 4 fibroids. For several months I had been having periods every 6 days, they lasted 7 days.The first few days were awful, I had to change tampon plus sanitary towel every 30 minutes and at night I was up every 2 hours. This restricted my freedom in that I couldn’t go to work for a few days as I couldn’t risk making the journey by train in case of leakage on my clothing.
Today I am on painkillers and suffering from stomach cramps plus my legs are purple and sore at the groin area from the surgery. Loss of appetite and needing lots of sleep.
September 25, 2006 at 12:00 am
Your symptoms were severe. Glad you sought treatment. I have started a post-UFE/UAE thread in the Forum. Here you can read the recovery experiences of other women plus find links to posts about my experience. Feel free to post any other thoughts or questions. I appreciate you sharing what you are going through. Best wishes with your recovery.
September 25, 2006 at 8:26 pm
Just found out about a month ago that I have a grapefruit size froid. My first doctor said my only option was a hysterectomy – thankfully I’m in the Boston area – several places including the Lahey Clinic, are doing studies on focused ultrasound treatments – so far I’ve made it to the contrast MRI stage (next Thursday) and then will find out whether I make it to the next stage which is an interview with the Dr. running the study.
My question is about using birth control pills to try and control the bleeding. I struggle with depression as well as migraines and am very hesitant to go on the progesterone only pill my Dr. has suggested. She’s not pushing it – and I feel like I’m at a place now where my psych. meds are working well. Any experiences with altered mood during your experience?
September 26, 2006 at 7:54 pm
I’m so glad you’ve found other options! I think women should find out as much as they can about everything available to them. I have a thread in the Forum about focused ultrasound. Feel free to post your experiences (before or after) there if you like:
Does anyone have an experience with ExAblate (MRgFUS)?
I also set up a question about birth control pills to get some responses:
Anyone using birth control pills to control the bleeding from fibroids?
Thanks for visiting. I’m excited over your possibility to participate in the study. Best wishes.
September 27, 2006 at 3:25 pm
I’ve used Aygestin (synthetic progesterone) at 5mg/day for a 10-day cycle each month to help with the heavy bleeding, for over 5 years now. It made a big difference for about 3 years, but it no longer helps. The only thing it does do is regulate the timing of my 12-15 day periods so that I can schedule my doggone life around them! I had been on birth control pills (low-dose) most of my adult life, and had to get off them because they were contributing to the rapid growth of my fibroids. I’ve never had issues with PMS or other depression-related problems, and I can honestly say I experienced no side-effects, but it may be different for others who are prone to depression. I did have some acne briefly on a cyclic basis when I began taking it, but that stopped after a few months. Progestin made my life much more bearable up until the last 2 years, now that my tumors are quite large, but it is no real solution. I got my first of 3 Lupron injections yesterday in advance of doing ExAblate, and feeling fine so far but too early to tell probably, based on what I’ve been reading here! My mom had an easy menopause, so I’m hoping she passed her good genes on to me! I’ll keep you posted on my ExAblate experience when I go to the NJ clinic for it in January.
September 29, 2006 at 1:19 am
Ruth,
I’ve got three threads in the Forum waiting for you:
Anyone using birth control pills to control bleeding from fibroids?
How are you feeling after your Lupron Injections? Any side effects?
Does anyone have an experience with ExAblate (MRgFUS)?
ExAblate thread would include pre-treatment info as well. Since this procedure is only offered in limited areas, I’m excited that you are able to get it. Please keep us updated!
October 12, 2006 at 12:48 am
First I would like to say thank you to all of the ladies who have shared their stories. I have found them all helpful. I am 26 years old, and today I found out that I have 11 fibroids. I went to the Gyn to complain about a large mass that has been growing in my lower abdomen for about three years. I also have heavy periods with huge clots, back pain, severe pain during my period-in my large abdominal mass, and very long periods. Ultra sounds today could not reveal what the large mass in my abdomen is. I was told that it could be attached to my bowel. I am scheduled to have a CT Scan tomorrow. The Dr. told me that I have two options; hysterectomy and UFE. I am diabetic, have been for 12 years. I have one child, a daughter. Surgery is very serious when you have diabetes, so I was advised to consider the hysterectomy. Multiple surgeries for me could cause serious complications. Still weighing my options, although. Good luck too all!!!
October 12, 2006 at 11:29 am
Habibslupee – also ask your doctor about a abdominal myomectomy if you are interested in maintaining your fertility. That is another surgical proceduer that MAY be an option for you but may depend becuase of your condition. Its just one surgery and a skilled surgeon can removed all the fibroids with little blood loss as well.
I had a very large fibroids and even with an CT scan, MRI and ultasound doc thought one may be attached to the bowel…turns out it was not and apparetnly it is not very common for this to happen (or so my doctor said)
good luck with your decision and please ask if you have any quesitons
October 23, 2006 at 7:32 pm
Hi Habibslupee,
Please check the Fibroid Forum page for posts on a number of treatment options including:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
How are you feeling after your Abdominal Myomectomy?
(and the newly created) Does anyone have a hysterectomy experience to share?
Also, MayoClinic.com has a good decision guide that gives information on several treatment options for uterine fibroids.
Thanks for your visit. Best wishes to you.
[Edited to add: I now have a post that discusses treatment options.]
October 24, 2006 at 10:39 am
Has money taken over the world?
October 26, 2006 at 7:20 am
I have just had a second UAE.
My fibroid is the size of a football and causes great pain, etc etc. (32 weeks)
I wondered if anyone had tried Vitalzym/Neprinol and had it worked.
Also has UAE ever worked for anyone and how.
Thanks
October 28, 2006 at 4:39 pm
kammy:
Money is inanimate. It will only take over the world if humans allow that to be the case.
Kulvinder:
There are posts waiting for you in the Fibroid Forum:
Has anyone needed a second uterine fibroid surgery or procedure?
Is there a natural alternative therapy or treatment for uterine fibroid tumors?
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
The last one has links to the other posts about my UFE/UAE experience as well as comments from women about what they are going through.
Best wishes to you.
October 30, 2006 at 9:27 am
Good Morning!
It is the day before my embolization treatment and in an effort to get a last minute, “real” handle on the procedure and what to expect (the whole pain pump afterwards seemed to be a bad sign of whats to come….) I went on yet another google search and came across this site! Invaluable information! Had no idea about the whole digestive issue with food and probs with constipation for some! Thanks for the info and I will post in with notes from my experience.
I am hoping for the best…to be back at work by next week and to only experience a moderate amount of pain. Keep your fingers crossed for me please! I will be in touch afterwards!
N.
October 30, 2006 at 12:17 pm
Nicola,
I am just recovering, good luck. Let me know how it went ……..we can compare notes.
D.
October 30, 2006 at 3:39 pm
Nicola:
I’m happy that you made it here! Yes, I had a problem with constipation. Seems that’s a side effect of at least one of the drugs. Best wishes with your procedure. You will be in our thoughts. Please keep us updated.
For the benefit of others, here are a few links about UFE and my experience:
What to expect from a Uterine Fibroid Embolization
The UFE Experience. Wasn’t that a band during the 70s?
Memories right before my Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Memories directly after my Uterine Fibroid Embolization
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Dawn:
Since you are recovering, I hope to see you in the post-Uterine Fibroid Embolization thread!
November 16, 2006 at 2:29 pm
As a naturopathic doctor, I was researching on the web about this fairly new treatment for fibroids using MRI and stumbled on your website. Just to let you know, there are many alternatives to drugs and surgery. With fairly aggressive naturopathic treatment, I have seen fibroids shrink in size and cease to be problematic pre-menopause. It is not always effective, but does work sometimes. For those with the desire to treat the cause (usually diet, lifestyle, and toxicity exposure), I suggest checking into naturopathic doctors within your area, who are licensed and board-ceritfied, and experienced in treating this disease.
November 16, 2006 at 3:04 pm
Just one more comment!
I do love this website and feel lucky to be able to learn about the emotional/psychologic component to fibroids and see that support is out there online for my patients. Your site is very informative and resource-filled. I will be recommending it.
November 16, 2006 at 6:15 pm
Dr. Terlisner,
Glad you stumbled here and thanks for the kind words. I wanted to start a science-based reference site that reflected my personal experience and was quite pleased that it developed into a source of support for others.
I hope you found both posts on MRgFUS:
New treatment uses sound waves to shrink uterine fibroid tumors
Does anyone have an experience with ExAblate (MRgFUS)?
I also have posts on alternative therapy, diet, and risk factors:
Is there a natural alternative therapy or treatment for uterine fibroids
Can I change my diet to help with fibroids?
What are the risk factors or causes of uterine fibroid tumors?
Feel free to leave comments there as well. I’ve had an interest in naturopathic medicine for a number of years. It’s good to know that you are seeing positive results with naturopathic treatments. I think more research in this field would be most exciting.
Yes, the emotional toll can be tremendous. Women must deal with the symptoms, making an informed treatment decision, and then the recovery process afterwards. I’ll add a link to the post that deals with that for the benefit of those reading:
What makes you mad, sad, or glad when you think about your fibroids?
I appreciate your visit and recommendation!
November 19, 2006 at 3:02 pm
looking for an experienced fibroid surgeon for an abd myomectomy in nyc…know anyone????
November 19, 2006 at 6:02 pm
Hi kim,
Please see this post:
How do I find a good local fibroid doctor?
You can also add your question to this next post since it is filled with comments from women recovering from the AM surgery:
How are you feeling after your Abdominal Myomectomy?
If you have other questions or concerns, please leave another comment.
November 24, 2006 at 5:28 pm
Hi ladies, can anyone tell me what it cost to have a MRI. I dont have insurance and I need to have one done soon. Your reply would be greatly appreciated.
Sanfly
November 25, 2006 at 2:04 pm
Sanfly – MY MRI cost 900 dollars (but my insurance covered it). It depends on the length of the scan. I had a large number of fibroids to “locate and measure” so it may be more or less…
November 25, 2006 at 6:43 pm
Sanfly:
Someone left a comment on one of the posts that their MRI cost $2500. You can view the comment here.
fibroid free:
How long was your scan? Hope it wasn’t an obnoxiously large amount of time.
November 25, 2006 at 8:35 pm
Thanks for the information about the cost of the MRI. I had a ultrasound done about 3 yrs ago and my fibroid was very large then. Dr. said from the results I could probably have more than one..Lets hope the cost is more like $900 and not $2,500. Hopefully I can get some kind of a deduction if i am paying cash..Thanks again fibroid & Geek.
November 26, 2006 at 10:16 am
My obnoxiously long MRI scan was about an hour in the hole LOL… with the radio crackling and the little men tap tap tapping on the metal sides of the tube…LOL
I know they have the Open MRI’s now a days but my doc recommended the closed one- he said you get better imagetry
November 26, 2006 at 1:41 pm
Here is a website where they have pictures of fibroids. http://www.hopeforfibroids.org/fibroidpictures.htm
November 26, 2006 at 3:44 pm
sanfly:
I also hope it will be closer to $900 for you.
Thanks for the link. I have a separate post that talks about fibroid pictures. You can add your link there if you like:
Psst… Where can I find pictures of fibroid tumors?
fibroid free:
A hour?!? Good grief. LOL
Don’t know if you have seen these but I’ll submit them for your amusement:
MRI as a catalyst for spiritual awakening (part I)
MRI as a catalyst for spiritual awakening (part II)
November 27, 2006 at 10:50 am
I remember reading those blogs and laughing…Yeah …they told me it will take about 45 minutes…I had been in the Tube before… but not THAT long. …What station would you like to listen to the lady asked? The worst part is was HOT!! and the sweat was rollin down my face and back and its not like you can get to it….YUCK. Oh I can laugh now…
November 30, 2006 at 4:54 pm
fibroid free,
You’re such a veteran here. Should have known you’ve seen close to 100% of my posts. LOL
All that with the MRI and hot, too! Sigh. We endure so much. Glad you are able to see the funny side of stuff.
December 1, 2006 at 6:03 pm
Ok I found out the MRI will cost me $1,100. Lots of money but alot better than $2,500. Anyone knows the difference with having a MRI verses a ultrasound? Can a MRI detect if your fibroids are cancerious? Just a bit stressed out here, and could use some feedback.
Thanks,
Sanfly
December 6, 2006 at 6:49 pm
Hi Sanfly,
Yes, $1100 is definitely better than $2500! I will direct you to this post:
Are uterine fibroid tumors a sign of cancer?
There is a discussion there about detection tests. Please know that the incidence of cancer is rare (fewer than 0.1% of cases). Keep posting if you have further concerns.
December 7, 2006 at 3:02 pm
Yes 1100 vs 2500 Very Good!!
Like EclecticGeek said – fibroids that are cancerous are VERY RARE FIbroids are really non cancerous tumors….
Sanfly – the difference bewteen MRI and ultrasound is one -the kind of imagtry used, the level “detail” that can be seen and the area you can see (ie my MRI showed by entire pelvic area, colon, bladder and uterus etc). MRI produces a 2 or 3 D picture . My MRI pictures were like WOW….I did look at my own fibroid CD on the computer while eating some popcorn LOL
Both are good in seeing fibroids, but MRI’s are often used for greater detail, very accurate measurments and seeing surrounding organs and blood flow.
Here is a helpful geeky link to MRI’s basic 101 and ultrasound 500 LOL
http://health.howstuffworks.com/mri1.htm
http://health.howstuffworks.com/ultrasound1.htm
“MRI- can pick out a very small point inside the body and ask , essentially, “What type of tissue are you?” The MRI system goes through the particular area point by point, building up a 2-D or 3-D map of tissue types. It then integrates all of this information together to create 2-D images or 3-D models.
MRI provides an unparalleled view inside the human body. The level of detail we can see is extraordinary compared with any other imaging modality. MRI is the method of choice for the diagnosis of many types of injuries and conditions because of the incredible ability to tailor the exam to the particular medical question being asked. By changing exam parameters, the MRI system can cause tissues in the body to take on different appearances. This is very helpful to the radiologist (who reads the MRI) in determining if something seen is normal or not. We know that when we do “A,” normal tissue will look like “B” — if it doesn’t, there might be an abnormality. MRI systems can also image flowing blood in virtually any part of the body. This allows to perform studies that show the arterial (bloood) system in the body, but not the tissue around it.
Hope that helps
December 10, 2006 at 5:40 pm
I love howstuffworks.com! Even added my suggestions back in June on making an MRI less stressful. You can view it here.
Please don’t get me started on ultrasound vs MRI. My first ultrasound 8 years ago didn’t detect squat. They were detected on the one from two years ago. The MRI put everything into perspective. When I viewed my MRI and could clearly see the fibroids, I knew they had to go.
December 10, 2006 at 10:25 pm
Thanks for the responses. Fibroid your explanation is extremely thorough & informative. I told the doctor I had a ultrasound 3 yrs ago and was surprised when he scheduled me to have another one…(though he would recommend a MRI) Oh well I only hope he knows what the hell he is doing.. Thanks again.
Sanfly
December 17, 2006 at 5:33 pm
Hi Sanfly,
I can understand why your doctor would want to get a more recent ultrasound. Seems like that would be a more direct comparison to the one you had 3 years ago. My present GYN took one look at my ultrasound report and immediately started talking about treatment options. I knew I wanted the UFE procedure which is why I had my MRI.
The MRI is great because (as fibroid free stated) it provides detail. Once I saw my fibroids on the MRI, I wanted them gone…like that day. They were both fascinating and creepy to see. My second ultrasound was equally important because it verified what I felt years before. I am the first to admit my level of insanity but I knew I was not being “crazy” when it came to these fibroids.
Bottom line. Get the second ultrasound. Talk to your doctor about the results and move forward from there. Best wishes and keep us updated.
December 27, 2006 at 11:23 am
I had a large fibroid (2 pounds) removed by myomectomy about 3 weeks ago. I should have gotten my period about 10 days ago. Does anyone know if surgery screws up the return of menstruation or should I be concerned that I’m one of those rare cases where the surgery causes early menopause.
December 28, 2006 at 10:30 am
Hi Mally – Welocome to the road to revoery.
There is a thread about Recovering from a Abdominal myomectomy and Laproscopic Myo.’s you may want to check out.
I am 4 months + post op AM and my periods are STILL trying to get back to normal (but then I had 6 large fibroids removed) My docotr said it would take a couple of cycles to get back to normal as far as when they come AND the heavyness of them.. my first coupel of period were really heavy…getting better now…
[Edited by EclecticGeek to add links.]
December 28, 2006 at 10:58 am
Sanfly – I think the MRI vs Ultrasound is just doctors preference to see what is going on in there…but a LOT can change in 3 years….my fibroids grew to the point of detection (well more like I looked 5-6 monhts pregnant) in a period of 6 months. My regular GYN visit in Feb 2005 doc felt nothing…got off the pill March 2005, noticed the big belly in Sept 05 and then crawled back into the doc’s offfice March 2006 with massive fibroids. I think the reason why I was sent for MRI is two fold…I went to a family pratcie doc (she was a new doctor for me) who I thought was a GYN – found out when I got there she no longer did GYN exams but my symptoms and the fact that you could feel those buggers in my abdomen and I asked her do I have fibroids??? she sent me for an MRI then sent me to a GYN specialist to handel the issue who sent me on to an RE. My RE surgeon STILL did a vaginal ultasound cause he said the technicians dont always read the MRI films/write the report accuratly and he had to “see” for himself….
Get the second ultrasound..get a current picture …I had an MRI, 2 Ultrasounds, a CT scan with the dye along with endometrial biospy …all so doc had current picutres/status of everything…
December 28, 2006 at 5:26 pm
mally,
It seems as though whatever is done to these dang fibroids (cutting them out, blocking their blood supply, etc.) will cause possible changes to your periods. It can take time to get back to normal. See the threads that fibroid free suggested. Read through the experiences and post your questions. Monitor yourself and talk to your doctor if you are overly concerned.
February 15, 2007 at 1:20 pm
Thank you for this site. It is very helpful. I found out about my fibroid (Alien Baby) 3 years ago. As far as I know, I only have one large Fibroid.
It has been a very difficult ongoing journey. I have gone to 2 Medical Doctors (one was not supportive and the other has been nice without much input), 2 Naturopathic Doctors, and an Acupuncturist/TCM. For some time, both of the alternative methods really helped both mentally and physically.
My insurance did not cover the alternative medicine. Alternative methods can become very expensive After 3 years of trying alternative medicine; my husband cut me off because he did not see any big results. This caused many problems in our relationship. Overall, they did not get rid of the Fibroid Alien (If I had my way, I would have continued to go to my Acupuncturist/TCM).
Life has been very depressing and difficult. Recently, I have started to talk to a psychologist. I go once a week. It has been amazing. I can finally speak freely about all of my thoughts and problems dealing with the fibroid. This past week, I have finally decided that I do not want to live like this anymore–depressed about looking pregnant, feeling bloated, not fitting into my clothes, too many days bleeding….I could go on and on. I am only 33 years old. I have been so worried about the surgery and the possibility of losing my uterus. I do not have children and do not know if I want them, but I want to be the one to decide.
I want to feel good about myself again, to feel confident, and to live life again.
I have decided that my destiny is the MRI Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery. I hope that I qualify for it so I am in the process of searching for the best facility to go to be evaluated. Any suggestions?
Thank you,
DMITRI
February 16, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Hi DMITRI,
Glad the site is helpful to you. I have a post that talks about treatment options. That post has links to other “forums” on this site where women are discussing post-procedure recoveries:
Just what are your uterine fibroid treatment options?
There is also a Forum page where you can find other topics we are discussing.
There are two posts on ExAblate (MRgFUS):
New treatment uses sound waves to shrink uterine fibroid tumors
Does anyone have an experience with ExAblate (MRgFUS)?
You will find information there on facilities and people you contact. Also, women are starting to add their post-procedure recovery experiences.
Best wishes!
March 12, 2007 at 12:57 pm
Yeah, last week went for an ultrasound and they found my ovaries are like apples instead of almonds. (Major Huevos I guess you’d
say) Because of the size, Amy, my new doctor, diagnosed ovarian cancer.
Since ovarian cancer is extremely aggresive, they had me zipped in for a full CT scan. Luckily( really like a new lease on life) my lungs, liver etc etc everything else, seems to be clean. the doc couldn’t believe it considering the size of the growths, but referred me onto the “best” gynacological surgeon around.She works out of UCSF. I will see her, on wed. morning, supposedly to schedule the surgery for sometime in the NEXT TWO WEEKS!!! But, more possible good news is when I saw my doc again, she was really looking closely at the scan and called the radiologist back in to consult with, it does not look like regular ovarian cancer typically behaves and she believes it is quite possible !!benign growths, but still major surgery to get in there
and take a slice and analyze on the spot and decide just what needs to come out, just the apples or the whole shebang.Them making the decisions of course, with me out on some other planet.Talk about putting your life in someone else’s hands, I haven’t even met this person!! I would rather have the time to try some woowoo stuff which I have had amazing success with on other medical issues, but not like a breast tumor which you can hang with for a month or so, this, if it is cancerous just moves too fast. they can’t just aspirate it, take some cells and check them out, because you don’t want to damage the mass and possibly seed the rest of the abdomen, uterus, lymph
etc. Ssssssssooooooo………..???Any ideas gals?
March 12, 2007 at 1:46 pm
I just submitted the above, but it is the first time I have ever been to a blog or submitted to one. Wow, I have submitted to one or two weird experiences in my life, this is relatively painfree, but, I don’t know if I am where I am supposed to be to get read and responded to. Can someone let me know please?
March 12, 2007 at 2:37 pm
Hi carole,
Sorry you’ve been through so much this week. My blog is about fibroid tumors of the uterus so I have to admit that I don’t know much about ovarian growths. There are some women on the site who’ve had hysterectomies just in case that is one of your options. You can find them through the Forum page I’ll link below.
Here are a few pages to get you started on the blog:
Help! – explanation of just about everything
Forum – list of the most discussed topics on the site including post-op recoveries from various procedures. You can ask questions and talk to other people.
Links – medical references to help you with your online research
Try those links (especially the Forum) and keep posting if you have questions. Things seem to be moving pretty quickly for you so please keep us updated. I hope everything works out for the best.
March 19, 2007 at 11:16 pm
Hi. Im new on the board. I think this is an awesome site. Iam 32 years old and lost my baby at 20 weeks 3 weeks ago. My doctor found that I had a fibroid when I was 6 weeks pregnant. He told me that my uterus was measuring about 13 weeks pregnant at the time. I was then told that the location of the fibroid would not cause a problem to the fetus. Well, the fibroid grew from 7cm to 9.7 cm by the time I was 18 weeks pregnant. 2 weeks after that I was in the hospital because I was having contractions. I stayed in the hospital for 5 days and was told that my cervix had become very thin and that if the baby was born he would not be viable. I was told to be on strict bedrest and hope to make it to 24 weeks. At least then, the doctors could give me steroids to pump the baby’s lungs if it had to be born. Well I went home and 3 days later I was back at the hospital with severe contractions. I gave birth hours later to my son whose heart had stopped beating. My husband and I are completely devastated(this is our first child). I have a sonogram appt. tomorrow so my doctor could locate this fibroid and we will discuss the surgery…abdominal myomectomy. Iam so so scared. I saw one performed online by a doctor at Long Island College Hospital and it completely freaks me out. Has anyone had this performed and had a successful pregnancy thereafter? If so, how long was the recovery after the procedure and how long did you have to wait to start trying to get pregnant again? Sorry this is so long…
March 20, 2007 at 3:01 pm
Hi Momo1974,
Welcome to the site and thanks for the compliment.
I am so sorry for your loss and please don’t apologize for the length of your comment. There’s a Forum page where you will find discussions on a number of different topics but I think these three pages will get you started:
How are you feeling after your Abdominal Myomectomy? (part 3)
Is anyone having fertility issues because of uterine fibroid tumors?
Trying for pregnancy (ttc) after your fibroid procedure (Abdominal Myomectomy)?
Ask as many questions as you like. You aren’t alone in any of this. Take care.
June 11, 2007 at 2:04 pm
Hi, I found this website on Google. I have smallish fibroids that do not give me any troubles except for occasional painful periods. My doc put me on Yasmin birth control pills to control painful periods which seems to be working. However, my doctor had been doing an ultrasound on me every month for the past three months, why so many? Is this normal? Should I get a new doctor? My fibroids are not big.
June 24, 2007 at 2:01 pm
tks for this site.i wonder if fibroids can cause a tube extra to show blocked tubes.
August 14, 2007 at 8:18 pm
Yes! so hold.t
August 18, 2007 at 3:05 pm
Just found out I have 2 intramural fibroids, the larger one has pushed my cervix out of joint. Scheduled for a hysteroscopy and abdominal myomect. in a week, doing it abdominally because the larger one is at the back of the uterus and they apparently need to slice through the uterus in order to get to it.. My gynae says I’ll be in hospital for about a week and at home for 2 weeks…
I’m only starting to learn about this subject, but from reading the posts on this blog it seems that (a) this treatment may be radical and (b) scheduled hospitalisation and home rest seem much (much) longer.. Any thoughts / comments would be appreciated.. Would also be interested to know what to expect in the way of post-surgery pain and how long before back to normal activity – gym/running etc?
Thanks, and well done on this blog!
August 20, 2007 at 1:15 am
Hi Cal, I don’t have an answer to your question, but you might want to look through the other more active areas of this blog and ask your question there… you might look on the right side bar under: “Geeks read these entries most” to find an area in which to post your question. Even if the topics don’t exactly match your issue, you can try asking there anyway.
If you look above your question here, you’ll notice people have asked questions but no one answered… I think it is because people may not get the digest sent to them… and only read some of the areas regularly.
Good luck, I hope your surgery and recovery goes well. I guess it is better to have more time for recovery at the hospital than not enough…which seems to happen to some of the women here.
Amy
August 25, 2007 at 11:36 pm
I just wanted to say WOW!
October 10, 2007 at 1:43 am
Hi:
Just wanted to let everyone know, if you need an MRI and you don’t have insurance, google MRI discounts. I paid $460 for mine.
November 10, 2007 at 8:59 pm
So glad to have found this site! Found out in Jan of this year that I have a 3.8 centimeter pedunculated fibroid on the outside back of my uterus. Just went in for a check up and another ultrasound last week, that fibroid has stayed the same, but they found another tiny one in the lining of my uterus, less than a centimeter in size.
I’m going for a 2nd opinon next week to another gynocologist and am hoping to find some relief. I’ve been told by every doctor I’ve seen that these are relatively small- yet I have been having longer, worsening pain and periods and am looking into just having them removed and keeping my baby making parts!
I found it is SOOOO important to research your treatment options and if you don’t like what one doctor says- go see another!
Great site here- so much info and great stuff!
November 15, 2007 at 8:23 pm
Me too. I think this is the most comprehensive website for fibroid! I have a 6CM fibroid and possibly couple smaller ones. I have so much lower back pain due to the large fibroid. It might also explain why I can’t get PG for a long time. Mine also grows on the outside of my uterus. I have done MRI this week and will talk to my doctor next week.
I do want it to be removed via surgery. Angie, ssems like you are very good at interviewing doctors! My current doctor is very young and I am not sure if I want her to do the surgery. I would prefer the other doctor in the same hospital who has done this for many years. But can I tell my doctor I rather prefer the other doctor to perform the surgery?
November 29, 2007 at 11:12 am
I wanted to respond to the question regarding Blackstrap Molasses. I have been taking 1 tsp of Molasses each day for the last 30 days. I noticed a significant improvement in the bleeding during my period, much less clots and cramping. I had an abdominal myomectomy in 2000, and had 10 fibroids removed. They have regrown, and I have been trying to manage them since 2005. The Molasses has made a big difference in my comfort level, and helped with PMS as well. I also recently started Iodine supplementation, which has helped a great deal with flagging energy levels, and improved my sleep quality. I can’t gauge if these nutritional additions are shrinking the fibroids, but they have certainly improved the symptoms.
May 16, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Hi. I was just wondering if anyone has ever had a sonohystergram. I am scheduled to have one on June 2 and I am making myself ill with worry. I have an orange sized fibroid laying on my bladder. SCARED!!!
May 17, 2008 at 10:50 am
Hi Cathiv, it’s been a while, but I don’t recall my sonohystogram as being a big deal at all… other procedures, like me d & c, now that I remember! Ouch!! search the web for more descriptions, they’re out there. (p.s. this particular thread isn’t read very much… try posting this question on another thread here – find one where women are writing more often – you’ll note the last person to write on this thread wrote in Nov!)
May 22, 2008 at 1:19 pm
thank you amy. I am thankful for your response
July 9, 2008 at 10:49 am
Hi Geek,
Thanks so much for sharing your experience and all the information. I have a really large fibroid (12cm) and will go through surgery in a month or so. And of course, I’m anemic too! I’ve been feeling awful recently, weakness, fatigue, nausea. I’m considering to have the new robotic technology and was googling for information. And I got to your blog!
What a wonderful find. I’ll keep on reading it!
August 19, 2008 at 3:01 am
Hi, Im in Australia and just stumbled on your blog. I have 4 largish fibroids, and am getting severe pain in my left side, just inside my hip bone. My uterus is the size of a 12 week pregnancy. My doctor says that the fibroids would not cause that type of pain. Any ideas? I am having a total hysterectomy in two weeks. I am 51 years old. Any help would be appreciated.
August 21, 2008 at 12:37 am
Hi Gill,
No ideas, sorry! Although I have had some pain in my hip, I deal with by seeing a chiropractor… But I’m very interested to know if your pain goes away with your hysterectomy. Good luck with your surgery and please keep us posted.
October 4, 2008 at 2:31 am
Hi,
I’m 43 and have just been informed I have a 9cm fibroid. No symptoms, other than heavy bleeding around the 2nd and 3rd day of my period. I’m not anemic, blood work is normal. But my doctor immediately suggested I have my uterus removed with the fibroid (leaving the cervix and ovaries). Everything in me is screaming not to have the surgery, I dont know why but I dont think it’s necessary. Any comments, suggestions anyone?
October 4, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Hi Confused, I’ve lived with a 9cm and a 6 cm for at least 5 years, and no one has ever suggested having a hysterectomy – even though I was really bleeding and anemic. Like you say, the only symptom is heavy bleeding, but your blood is fine… I have to wonder what your doc is thinking! See someone else!!! I’d have them out any day before having a hysterectomy – which I sort of see as a last resort when one is having a host of horrible symptoms.
October 5, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Hi Amy,
Thank you so much for responding. You’ve just confirmed what my gut has been telling me. I had a second opinion, and that doc gave me a host of other options (all involving surgery). The 2nd opinion doc didn’t feel I’d be a candidate for emobolization, and felt that if I didn’t want to have children ‘why not have the surgery’….But I think I’m going to trust myself and explore alternative treatments. Thank you again for taking the time to respond…
October 22, 2008 at 3:14 pm
This is for Gill.
Unless there are problems coping with fibroids surgery should not be needed around the age of 51 & above. Menopause should begin around age 51 or 52 depending on when your cycle began. During menopause fibroids shrink.
I’ve also been told that consuming soy products help with controlling hormones which is responsible for fibroid growth. My fibroids were getting larger each ultrasound & I was continually anemic. After drinking soy milk for a while my fibroids had ceased to grow & my iron level became normal & consistent.
I was referred to a Radiologist for a UFE which I have schedule in a week. When the radiologist read my MRI she informed me that my 3 largest fibroid had sort of embolized themselves. The MRI showed there was no blood flow going to them. I also have 4 more so I will be having the UFE for them. If I was sure that the others would do the same I would not have the procedure but space within my abdomen is limited and I don’t want to take a chance.
Thanks for this blog. Even though I am able to share info about my fibroid experience it is helpful to know about the UFE procedure. This has been very helpful.
November 12, 2008 at 11:03 am
Hello all,
I just had a UFE on Monday 11/10/08. This is day three and I feel very good. At the present I am symptom free from the procedure, no pain or anything. My abdomen is not sore, tender or swollen as I’ve read in others testimony. Day 1 I felt a little lightheaded and disney about twice. After the second dizzy spell, I vomitted in a 4 ounce cup. Day 2 the only exeperience I had was a slight chill that night while under the covers. Otherwise my sister & everyone else say I don’t appear as someone who just had invasive surgery. I feel very good!
I must add I am athletic. I run 4 miles every Saturday, 7 miles is the most I have done. I am 5′7″ and weigh 138 lbs. The doctor said my surgery was an easy one. She said my arteries were open & very easy to get through. Maybe the exercise is a benefit.
November 14, 2008 at 5:30 pm
11/14/08 Day 5
Having pain & fever which began after day 2. I was lenient on taking the pain medicine which probably kept the pain & fever away. For anyone who is having the procedure remember to pump morphine as much as you can while in the hospital & take the pain medicine as directed whether you have pain or not. I thought I was just pain free since I usually am good with handling pain. Not this time, the pain medicine was actually doing its job which made me feel so well. My dosage of Motrine was not enough either. I was prescribed to take one 5/500 pill every six hours. The pain was still there. I had a bottle of 7.5/500 in which one was enough. Therefore I took one & a half of the 5/500 which is equivalent and the pain is now being controlled once again. I am passing streaks of blood on trips to the bathroom. Having a fever that gets no higher than 101.5 Those symptoms are to be expected. I am enjoying the rest & being off work.
January 25, 2009 at 12:49 pm
I have just stumbled on this site and I am almost sighing in relief(except for the horrible pain I am experiencing at the moment). To be honest, I was beginning to think that maybe I was just being a big baby about the pain and other lovely symptoms, mainly because(and god love him, I know he’s a man)but I think my husband doesn’t realize just how much pain I am experiencing. I am sooooo glad I found a site that shows women going through the same thing. I was just diagnosed with my fibroid in October and the doctor put me on birth control pills, which haven’t really helped and have actually made the pain constant, ranging from just dull pressure to horrible, I can’t sleep pain. The only thing that even helps, even if it just takes the edge off, is ibuprofen, haven’t tried any Aleve as of yet, but that will be my next choice just to see if I can sleep through the night. I am at the point now that I just want it gone and I am not sure which procedure would be best, I don’t know anyone who has had these lovely things. I have no children at the moment, but want to have them. I am so glad I found this site!!! I thought the 2-3 days a month I have not choice but to miss work was possibly just an indulgence on my part. I guess I just needed support and found it by reading all of the blogs, Thanks to all
January 26, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Suzanne – Did your doctor tell you why they were causing you so much pain? I think you will want to ask your doc how many fibroids you have, size, location…..and that will help you determine what your options are. That and retaining fertility.
This site also was a great comfort to me when I discovered it last Spring
This thread doesn’t get a lot of traffic. Most of the myomectomy threads are helpful & active…even if that’s not the treatment you end up with.
May 15, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Hello,
I just found out that I have a fibroid. Part of it is submucosal. It is posterior to the uterus and it is on the larger side. The Reproductive Endocrinologist is going to schedule an HSG to see if I will need surgery. I live in the DC area. I plan to go to Johns Hopkins if I need surgery. I read about a syndrome called PCOS and asked my GYN to run tests. My GYN told me I might have PCOS and ordered a pelvic ultra-sound. Then she never got back to me about the results. The technician who did my ultra-sound told me to go to Hopkins if I have to have surgery. She had a very bad experience before she went into the medical field.
Has anyone in the forum read about or heard about Transvaginal Myomectomy?