Included here are articles and stories written by readers or others.
|
gina 's story |
| gina ,scotland |
I got diagnosed with a large mass went for a scanfound out I had a very large fibroid measuring 15in by 7 in by 7in,then went to see specialist who says the way its positioned its too dangerous to operate on so I am now gettin injections to reduce the size hopefullybut won't get operated on for 4 months and that they will also do a sub-total hysterectomy in the mean time I cant sleep due to the pain and discomfort just fed up . |
cowdenbeath ky4 9pa [2011-09-25 02:53:05] |
|
s 's story |
| fibroids |
my probs started 10 yrs ago when i was diagnosed with a molar pregnancy, 18 months down the line i was sterelized.
During the months after my op my periods gradually got worse and worse very painful and flooding every month. 5 and half yrs ago i had the merina coil fitted to stop my periods which didnt happen but did make them alot lighter and mangeable. In August this year i went for my routine smear test (which came back normal)whilst i was having the smear i asked the nurse how long the coil had been fitted and she told me it should of been changed 6 months ago but because i wasnt using the coil has a contraceptive it wasnt a problem but would have to see my doctor to get it changed. so i made app and went to see doc, she gave me an internal and said i had a mass in my uterus and need a ultrasound scan to detect fibroids before she could change the coil. last week i went for the scan 2 days later my doctor rang me at home saying the ultasound was inconclusive and i would after have a MRI scan. To me a MRI scan says cancer cancer cancer, plz advise im going out of my mind with worry. many thanks x |
wakefield wf1 2pe [2011-09-23 22:58:50] |
|
Sally 's story |
| Ms |
Hi, I'm 40 years old and after 3 years of the most nasty
and flooding periods I have finally been given the chance
to have a hysterectomy due to my very large and
annoying fibroids. I have bladder weakness due to the
pressure, and this also effects my bowl, which can result
in terrible stomach/gas pains that can reduce me to
tears. I am on the pill, which i take three months at a
time. After my period i am having a foul smelling
discharge for about two weeks. I have searched the
internet and am struggling to find anyone that it also
suffering from this....Surely I can't be the only one? |
Surrey SM5 1HJ [2011-09-02 19:37:49] |
|
Crispy 's story |
| Crispy |
Waiting for UAE one huge fibroid one medium and at least two smalls. Had MRI and 3 ultrasounds.
Very worried about pain after the procedure. Will let you know how I get on. Relieved after 20 years of being asked when is the baby due that I might get a smaller stomach. |
Hampshire Po143sw [2011-08-28 16:03:32] |
|
J 's story |
| Fibroid problems |
I am 53 and had a myomectomy 15 years to remove five large fibroids which had grown during my pregnancy to 11cm. Now I am perimenopausal and have another 5cm fibroid and have suffered from irregular heavy bleeding and flooding for three years. After investigations I was given Zoladex but this has not helped. It seems I suffer with oestrogen dominance which causes the lining of the womb to grow and sudden bleeding. Having tried the non-hormonal and hormonal medical therapies (I am currently taking Norethisterone 15mg per day, I have now asked for a hysterectomy as I want the problems to be permanently resolved. I am now waiting for a date for the operation after which I am looking forward to a new life!! |
Surrey GU10 4ND [2011-08-25 16:42:33] |
|
P 's story |
| Mrs |
I have a 18.5 cm fibroid and had UAE seven weeks ago. I have gone back to the hospital today as pain has returned and awful night sweats. Fibroid hasnt shrunk at all. I wondered if I am being impatient, can it take a while for the fibroid to shrink? |
Preston Pr 1 0 ls [2011-08-24 17:40:38] |
|
rachel 's story |
| rachy29 |
After a 12 day bleed with many fist size
clots i felt something coming out of
me....called my gp who said it sounded
like a prolapse of my womb,after seeing
the gp mins later she said there was an 8
cm mass thought to be a miscarage half in
and half out of my cervix.I got sent
steaight to the hospital where examined
again and found out the mass is a
fibroid.sent home bleeding very heavy and
told i will be called soon for emergency
surgery.As i have an 18 month old this
will not be easy to sort out :( Very
frightened :( |
carterton ox18 1hf [2011-08-24 03:38:56] |
|
r 's story |
| fibroid what will be my treatment |
hi i have a fibroid 6.3 x 7.6 x 5.7 i have a hospital appointment october .the doctor has told me it in the inside muscle of the womb it is distorting the womb lining.i am 39 with 2 children and wouldnt want anymore children ...please can anyone tell me what will happen ,i have painfull periods with bloodclots and have had the depro injection to help stop this ..any help would be appreciated thanks xxx |
shropshire tf2 0dw [2011-08-15 13:32:59] |
|
J 's story |
| I am dealing with fibroids head on |
I was first diagnosed with fibroids in March 2011,
their presence confirmed by ultrasound and MRI
exams.
After seeking the opinion of 3 OB/GYNs in my area, I
have decided to have an abdominal myomectomy to
remove the larger fibroid (10cm as of a few months
ago). I would strongly encourage women to always
ask a lot of questions at the doctor's office, stay
informed, and always seek a 2nd opinion if you are
not comfortable with your doctor or their approach.
I have lived with a number of unpleasant fibroid-
related symptoms which interrupt my daily life - long,
heavy and painful periods, irregular bleeding, random
pelvic pain, a swollen abdomen... I am looking forward
to putting all this behind me!
I am a British woman dealing with this issue in the
United States, where I recently relocated. I have
started a blog of my fibroid story here:
www.whenfibroidsattack.wordpress.com |
Washington DC 20005 [2011-07-26 18:33:43] |
|
S 's story |
| Miss |
About a year ago I noticed my abdomen had
become quite distended and and hard. I
also suffered from constipation and
occasional lower abdominal pain. I saw my
GP for another unrelated issue and
mentioned the problem after thorough
examination and worried look and she
referred to a Gastroenterologist who was
quite baffled. I had a CT scan which found
to have multiple fibroids the biggest 3
measured 18cm, 16cm and 14 cm in diameter.
I was referred to a brilliant
gynaecologist Mr Phillips and after 6
Prostap injections I had an open
myomectomy 2 weeks ago as the fibroids
were still too big for keyhole. He removed
the biggest 3 and about 7 other small
ones, my womb was the size of 28 weeks
pregnancy. I am recovering really well, I
was discharged 24 hours post op. I have
been able to do most things in the house.
The pain was bearable, I stopped taking
the pain killers about 3 days post op. I
am very pleased with the scar as well and
the weight loss. |
Durham dh1 4gd [2011-07-20 16:45:45] |
|
janet 's story |
| janet |
I have 2 large fibroids which cause heavy periods. After years of seeing various Consultants and GPs I still feel I don\'t understand what options are available to me other than hysterectomy. Consultants don\'t explain what options are available and seem keen to send you on your way. Has anyone heard of SERRACOR a fibrin dissolving enzyme in use in USA or any similar treatment?
I feel that I should have been given treatment when the fibroids were small instead of being left for them to become much larger, they will continue to grow until menopause in 5 or 6 yrs. I was told by the last GP I saw that the fibroids will shrink to a negligable size at menopause but I admit to being unsure if this is true. |
sheffield s20 4ua [2011-07-14 12:18:07] |
|
SM 's story |
| Lower back pain |
I was diagnosed with an 8cm fibroid at the back of my uterus 4 years ago, last year my scan showed it had grown to over 12cm. Mostly I have no pain but ocassionally suffer a dull pain/feeling of discomfort in my lower back- especially when sitting in a car or moving my right leg. This can last for several days/weeks then I could go for a preiod of time with no symptoms at all.
I am 33 and have no children but would like them in the future. My GP/specialist has said that I can do nothing or go with UAE or myomecomy. I am not sure what to do.
How can I tell it the lower back pain I get is related to the fibroid? Is it worth seeking a second opinion from a private doctor? |
Glasgow G12 9QZ [2011-07-13 23:10:43] |
|
Angela 's story |
| I Want my life back,,,,,, |
What can I say about fibroids in one word...Nightmare! My own experience of having fibroids and how its affecting my day to day routine. I have numerous fibroids and one measures at 14cm. Due to the size it is putting pressure on my kidney on the right hand side of my body this pain is becoming daily more so due to the size,and I also suffer lower back pain. My stomach has swollen so much I look pregnant and its so disheartening to see my body change like this over the months, it has knocked my confidence and self esteem, I hardly go out because I have zero energy most days, I sleep a lot! always running to the toilet and having trouble passing. I control my period by being on the pill and when I finish I will stop for five days and go back on them just so I dont have to bleed, plus I have an implant inserted in my upper arm. There is a light at the end of the tunnel though, I meet my consultant on the 19th of July, to discuss the UEI procedure which I am opting for. I just hope this works for me and I can get my life back. If anyone reads this and is familiar with my symptoms but has done nothing about it then perhaps you need to see your GP and request an ultra scan and if the condition is really bad they will refer you for an MRSI scan. I feel for all you ladies out there who is suffering the same....This has been a very helpful site, it has made me feel a bit better knowing I am not the only one who is going through this.... |
Inverness IV2 3LJ [2011-07-12 00:15:33] |
|
F 's story |
| Getting past GPs and pain control |
hi, my daughter had an emergency myomectomy aged 16 years because of severe breathing problems as it was so huge and attached to her bowel wall. She has recently had embolisation aged 19 years. Both times we couldn't get a GP to take out concerns seriously and were told the second time that only older women get fibroids.
Pain control is very poor at the QMC and both times my daughter was discharged with zero pain relief, requiring accessing emergency out-of-hours services. I now keep a supply of strong pain relief at home all the time just in case. Why are women treated so poorly?
Fibroids are serious. |
Matlock DE4 4FD [2011-07-02 17:54:59] |
|
Debbie 's story |
| Very confused. |
Hi Everyone,
I had an endometrial ablation 3yrs ago. Having
had some excruciating pain I was sent for an
ultrasound scan that showed a 2.5cm mass in my
uterus. A recent visit to a gynaecologist said
that he wanted to remove it urgently (appt to
surgery in 4 weeks). He seemed to think that you
cannot get fibroids after an ablation but my
hospital notes say that I am going in to have a
fibroid asection. Has anybody else grown
fibroids after ablation and how quickly do they
grow?
Any help would be really appreciated as this has
left me very confused and worried. When do the
NHS ever work that fast??? |
LANCING BN15 9DJ [2011-06-23 13:55:06] |
|
anne 's story |
| myomectomy and more |
I just wanted to share my daughters story she is in hospital again as I write this she had a myomectomy at 19/20 years of age due to an extremely large fibroid - she had large blood clots a blood transfusion and very
heavy periods this was her only choice. However she recovered really well and tried to get back to normal life but heavy periods returned blood clots and yet another fibroid returned. She did lose weight which definately helped and stopped eating red meat well tried!!! However the fibroid has got worse but unfortunately a blood clot had formed near the fibroid so she has been in agonising pain she is now 26!! Fed up with it yes in and out of hospital - they cannot remove this fibroid without a full hystorectomy so thats not a choice at the moment - they are going to deal with pain relief for her so we are hopeful for the time being until she starts a family, She
did suffer two miscarriages last year and her relationship ended. However things are looking up she has a brillant consultant on the NHS so I do think thats has helped She knows the clock is ticking for children but we will cross that bridge - leading a healthy life is more important at the moment.. |
bromley br2 7ar [2011-06-22 11:07:36] |
|
Bridget 's story |
| living with fibroids |
I was diagnosed with multiple fibroids a year and a half ago, and later told that I also had a large endometrial cyst on my right ovary. I am now 44, never had children, but have always wanted them, but not been in a relationship at the right time to try. I have been with my partner now for 4 years and we had tried for over a year to get pregnant (knowing it was a long shot), it is only through fertility checks and mentioning the pain I had been having on my right side that the fibroids were detected. The first consultant I saw had no bedside manner, was very unsympathetic and said hysterectomy was the best treatment. I was referred to a specialist, who explained that if the aim was to retain fertility a myomectomy was the best option, he was much better at explaining the condition and treatment and both myself and my partner felt we trusted his opinion. I was told to go away and decide. After reading up on fibroids on the internet we decided on the myomectomy. I phoned to confirm my choice and then heard nothing for some months. I then got a letter to see another consultant, just before Christmas. Apparently my case had been discussed by all the team and it was recommended that a myomectomy was not my best option, the risks outweighed any benefits I might gain, and if symptoms were manageable, I should go home and carry on as normal. I went away feeling very confused and upset.
I always knew that my chances of having children was very low and now non-existent, which I have to come to terms with, but I am quite shocked at the lack of understanding and sympathetic approach shown by some of the male consultants to a condition that is not just physically hard but psychologically hard to endure. I felt very much a powerless victim, so I decided to read up more on fibroids and alternative treatments. I changed my diet, increased exercise & lost 3/4 stone in weight, and started having acupuncture. At this point my periods were very heavy and lasting two weeks, and I felt very tired & depressed. I was amazed at how much better I felt after the first two treatments, maybe it was partly a placebo effect, I don\'t know, but my cycle went back to normal, my night sweats decreased in intensity, my energy levels increased and I felt really good. However last month I started to get pains in my lower abdomen, and I could feel a large lump on my right side, I needed to pee every half hour and had a constant feeling of a full bladder. Ultrasound checks showed that the cyst had doubled in size, was now size of a small grapefruit and pressing on my bladder. Coupled with that my period was 10 days late (pregnancy test was negative), which has never happened to me before. Despite this, if any other women read this, and are looking for other treatment options I would recommend acupuncture wholeheartedly, and feel very strongly that it should be offered on NHS to ease symptoms of fibroids, PMS, menopause as a matter of course. Being told to just go home and carry on as normal is not an option!
The consultants now say that surgical intervention is needed, my options are myomectomy or hysterectomy and they have made it clear to me that their preferred option is the later!
I would love to hear from others in the same situation as me, I cannot contemplate a hysterectomy, it just feels so wrong, but I have also read some negative stories about myomectomy too. Part of me wishes I had pushed to have the myomectomy back at Christmas, when the csyt was half the size it is now.
I know I have to make a decision soon, but at the moment I just feel like putting my head in the sand & hope it will all go away. |
Thetford Ip26 4DR [2011-06-20 13:06:37] |
|
Amy 's story |
| Myomectomy |
Im 29 years old and been married for nearly two
years. We are trying to conceive and a friend
suggest to see gynaecologist to see if everything is
ok. I saw a lovely gynaecologist who did fertility
checks and also ultrasound. Unfortunately she
found 1 6cm fibroid anterior. She suggested for me
to have laparotomy myomectomy to remove it. I
dont have problems with my periods, maybe feeling
some 'pressure' on my bladder. She said the
surgery will be beneficial because fibroids can affect
fertility and if i fall pregnant it reduces
complicatioms caused by fibroid. Im thinking to
leave it for maybe another 6 months to see if i can
eventually fall pregnant without having surgery but
im scared about the complications that the fibroid
can cause if i dont remove it. Im a nurse but still is
not clear of what to do!! I'll be seeing the surgeon
in 2weeks time to talk about the surgery and i will
ask her this question. |
Shropshire 2ww 5bg [2011-05-28 03:42:58] |
|
lynn 's story |
| lynn 32 scotland |
Hiya everyone i am lynn 32 just today i had a scan and was told i have fibroids i have been getting very bad periods and bleeding and spot bleeding out with my period , i have been trying to get pregnant for 4 years not sure if fibroids have stopped this from happening. i am lucky i do have a son he is 8.I am not sure when i go to the doctors what they will say and will fibroids keep growing from lynn |
scotland ab43 6nj [2011-05-17 19:29:12] |
|
Rachael 's story |
| UAE, myomectomy, the lot! |
When I was 28 I was diagnosed with fibroids. I didn't want intensive surgery at that time so opted for UAE. I don't think the treatment was successful. About 6 months after, I had the worst bleed I've ever had. Since then, I have not noticed significantly less bleeding than before the treatment. I still get leaks - usually at night but sometimes even during the day, although I change tampons and towels every 60-90 mins for the first 2 days of my period.
I'm now 38, and I've been trying to get pregnant for the last 3 years, unsuccessfully. the fibroids had grown back, mirroring a 16 week pregnancy, and distorting my uterus. the Gynaecologist said that a myomectomy was the only way forward, and I would have to have this before IVF could practically be considered. So, three operations later (diagnostic laparoscopy, hysteroscopic removal of internal fibroid and abdominal myomectomy of external fibroids, plus ovarian drilling at the same time). I'm now recovering very slowly from the myomectory, which was a month ago, but the wound still hasn't healed properly yet. My main concern now is that even though it'e been 2 months since my last prostap injection (I had to have 4 before the myomectomy, to shrink my fibroids), my periods haven't returned and I'm still having hot flushes! I hope to start IVF as soon as possible. Does anyone know when my periods are likely to return, and if there's anything I can do? |
Gloucester GL1 3HZ [2011-04-15 16:00:50] |
|
Thelma 's story |
| GP-training |
Around October or November 2009, I had an appointment with my where I complained of migraine, severe period pain, heavy bleeding with clots. The GP referred me to St. Mary’s hospital where I had a scan done and was informed that I had a pendulated 7 cm fibroid. The GP asked if I wanted it removed and I informed him that I was unsure as my husband and I were trying to conceive. His advice was to try to conceive and if the symptoms become worse or I cannot conceive to come back.
My next appointment was with another GP at the same practise. I informed him again that I was having heavy bleeding and quite bad stomach pain. He asked me where the pain was and I pointed to my lower stomach. He looked at me and quickly informed me that I have IBS. I asked him that if the fibroid might be the cause of all those symptoms and his answer was that with fibroid the best thing was to leave it alone and to exercise and go on a diet. I am 5’2 and weighed around 51 kg around this time.
I was so angry that he dismissed me and without sending me for tests just diagnosed IBS with no treatment or solution for the pain and other symptoms. I called the surgery and complained to the Practise Manager and asked that I do not see this doctor again.
My next appointments after that were with another GP at the same practise. I once again went there for mainly the same symptoms and the fact that by late 2010 my husband and I were still unable to conceive. Each time I mentioned the fibroid and the fact that I am also going regularly to the toilet, I was dismissed and was told that fibroids do not affect fertility, I might not be conceiving because of my age etc… I also informed him that I was having such heavy bleeding and pain that it was affecting my life style and that I was wary of going out during my period because of the bleeding plus the fact that I have to be aware of where the toilets were because of my weak bladder.
By December I got so fed up of the same answers that I requested that he sends me for some fertility tests. His response was that we normally do the tests with the men first as it is cheaper but he can send me for a blood test. He then proceeds to print a form for my husband to have a sperm test done. I argued with him, saying that I was the one here and not my husband and I wanted some tests done. He refused and told me to speak to the nurse for some blood tests.
By end of December, I found out that I was pregnant. My husband and I were overjoyed but I lost the baby in January 2011. At St. Mary’s hospital they did a scan and told me that they are going to ask my GP to refer me to a gynaecologist as the fibroid has now grown to approximately 9 cm. The nurse even told that if my GP did not recommend me, I should change my surgery.
The hospital did send the result of the scan to the surgery but no one called to inform me of it. I was extremely upset and went straight from work and demanded to see the practise manager. I complained about the GPs and was told that he will set another appointment for me with another GP in 2 weeks time.
The practise manager also informed me that he could not do anything about my complaints and I have to put everything in writing in order for him to investigate.
I did not do so because as a result of the discussion, his reaction (So what do you want me to do about this?) plus the fact that he gave me an appointment in 2 weeks time, despite the fact that he could see that I was extremely upset (since I was crying non-stop). I did not have any trust or faith that he was going to do anything about these issues.
Despite my tears and complaints that I wanted to see someone earlier, I subsequently saw another GP (again at the same practise) 2 weeks later for a double appointment.
The GP then referred me to an NHS gynaecologist. I had the appointment at the beginning of March 2011 and was seen by a junior doctor who informed me that the practise has not sent any of my details to them apart from a letter stating that I had fibroid and a miscarriage.
I was then asked to book another appointment in a month’s time to see the gynaecologist. I was so upset and depressed about all the appointments with no clear picture of what was wrong with me that my husband called the gynaecologist and booked a private appointment. At the appointment and after the tests, I was informed by consultant that I would not have been able to carry a child naturally as the fibroid has taken over half of my uterus and he was surprised that despite my complaints and the fact that the original fibroid was 7 cm I was not referred to a gynaecologist earlier nor monitored!!!!!!
I am now on medication and having an operation in May to remove the fibroid before my husband and I can try to conceive. I am extremely angry with the GPs for not listening to me and resulting in the miscarriage of my baby after 1 year of trying to conceive. For the past 2 years, especially 2010, I have been stressed and depressed because of my inability to conceive. I know that if the GPs did refer me earlier, all this would have been averted and feel that they require further training in regards to Fibroids. |
London NW6 7XP [2011-04-14 13:36:49] |
|
e 's story |
| miss nicoll |
my doctor thinks i may have fibfoid i have to go and see someone at hospital im scared i dont even know if ill go im 51 years old only time iv been in hospital was to have my kids i would like to know if u can be put to sleep when they take a biopsie i had one on my chest and i wouldent go through that again could u help please thank you |
Musselburgh eh217lz [2011-03-25 19:53:22] |
|
Wendy 's story |
| MRI Guided Focused UltraSound at Paddington |
After feeling like I had a brick in my abdomin in 2006, I saw a consultant who suggested total hysterectomy. I was not happy about this, I was 47 at the time and never been pregnant, it had a sad finality about it, no other options were discussed. As I had just embarked on a degree course for the first time in my life, I did not want the interruption a major operation would bring, plus a host of unknown side effects, I was also caring for my mother with dementia & breast cancer,disabled father and clinically depressed husband. A friend gave me a newspaper cutting about MRIgFUS, the person in the article had also been involved in a car accident leaving major seatbelt bruising around the lower abdomin. After various letters to my GP about the procedure I was refered by the original consultant to one at St. Mary's Hosp. Paddington. There was a three month course of Zoladex to help shrink them, this was done by local GP surgery. Then in Oct.2007 I had two sonication sessions, at St. Mary's, not much pain at all and I walked to the station to go home. It did enable me to complete my degree and care for parents, it shrunk the large fibroid so I no longer sneezed & peed. On the down side, it cost around £4700 and another fibroid has appeared, so I'm sadly contemplating a hysterectomy. |
Bishops Stortford CM22 7AJ [2011-03-23 22:56:12] |
|
Jen 's story |
| Gut instincts count for a lot - we know our own bodies better than the medics do! |
Im a 42 year old mother of two grown up daughters. I have a history of heavy periods, but as many friends suffer the same I never actively sought help until my cycle went erratic leaving me period (and stress) free for months at a time. In 2007, I was sent to see a gynaecologist who did an ultrasound and said I had small fibroids and PCOS, but was happy to leave things as I didn't want any more children.
In a routine health M.O.T last year I had a hormone level test done which showed I had started a premature menopause, however I then had regular but heavy periods up until last December when I had the mother of all bleeds which left me anaemic.I was passing clots the size of the palm of my hand for 12 days.
Alongside this I have been through various hospital departments for severe right side abdominal pains that sometimes are as high up as my waist and others on a level with my navel but all shooting down to the groin. I have had numerous trips to the Gp to sort out pain control and have ended up at A&E for IV morphine on many occasions when its been really severe. I now have pain patches which help but don't take it away completely. Since the onset of the pains Ive had kidney stones diagnosed (by a CT scan), which I passed, but the pain persisted, my gall bladder was removed as an ultrasound scan showed gall stones, still had pain afterwards. I had my bowel checked, spine scanned, numerous xrays and finally was referred back to urology in January for yet another CT scan as she could feel a mass in my abdomen and a bladder scan showed I had a pocket of fluid (over a pint) somewhere other than my bladder.
Throughout all these tests Ive asked one question numerous times to every dr I have seen - 'Could it be fibroids?' and each time was told outright, in no way could it be, as the pain was in the wrong place and only large degenerating fibroids caused pain.
I recieved a letter from the urologist after the scan telling me she had referred me to gynae as the problem was in that area. I saw the first gynaecologist at the end of February who told me I have huge fibroids, my womb is enlarged to 24 week pregnancy size and one of the fibroids has a fluid centre which is a cause for concern so she gave me an appointment to see the gynae oncologist, which I did last week. The fluid can be a sign of degeneration, but also can indicate cancer.
I have to have a total abdominal hysterectomy and BSO to remove the problem. The fibrid with fluid has to be kept intact as it is high risk, hence the oncologist doing the surgery.
He is the first one who has actually said, yes,my fibroids could be causing the pain, when they are as large as this they are pressing on many organs (including my right kidney) and can crush nerves that supply the abdominal area meaning the pain isn't just in the central bit where the fibroids are.
I can't wait to have the hysterectomy, it seems wrong to look forward to surgery, but after having such severe pain that has greatly affected my quality of life for the past 18 months, its like there is finally an end in sight and the prospect of being pain free may become reality once more, rather than just an untouchable dream.
Please go with your gut instinct if you get pains like these, if they had sent me to gynae first I could have been recovered by now, and even if my experience only helps one other woman who reads and recognises the same symptoms in herself, it will have been worth posting it. |
Barnsley S71 2DF [2011-03-11 16:00:35] |
|
jahdeen 's story |
| MRI guided treatment at paddington |
I am a 32 year old black female (no children) who has been diagnosed with fibroids. I have a very slim figure but since the fibroid diagnosis 3 years ago I have a pot belly which looks like im 3 months pregnant at times and looks bigger after a heavy meal (a very common theme!)
I was told in oct 2010 that I could have the MRI guided treatment at St marys hospital in paddington, but have found out feb 2011 that the hospital had not applied to my local PCT for funding so this is a set back. Im hoping to have this done as i have a few fibroids that are continually growing, despite eating organic when i can and limiting my use of dairy and soya. |
london w5 3pl [2011-02-19 14:26:09] |
|
S 's story |
| Hi-don't know what to do |
I am 34 and trying to conceive since last two years, got pregnant once but miscarried in 16th week (Last year in August).
Got diagnosed by fibroid which is 3.5cm (couple of months ago). Now i am so confused and upset, don't know where to start from or what to do?
I havn't got any child so far, and i really want to be mom asap.
My concern is whether the treatment (Surgical removal of fibroid) is gonna to damage the uterus or it will increase the chance of getting pregnant.
Can somebody please, suggest me something, something that can help me to go for the best available option.
Thanks a lot. |
Plymouth PL1 5EG [2010-12-22 22:42:11] |
|
Mrs Carol 's story |
| Evie |
I am a 53 year old mother of two and grandmother of 3 who has suffered heavy periods for the past 8 years or so. I am fit and active, and the heavy periods as many other women will identify with, have been restricting my life and been very difficult to cope with. Last year, I missed 6 periods and with much relief, thought my problems were beginning to resolve as the menopause loomed! In January this year, I had another heavy period, followed in February by the most awfully heavy 12 day painful period I hav ever experienced. As the bleeding stopped, I started to experience very, very bad low back pain which went on for 7 months. Despite many, many different painkillers, trips to my local A&E dept in excruiating pain, I could find no relief for the pain. My GP referred me to a gynaecologist, I had a scan, hysteroscopy and laparoscopy which resulted in a diagnosis of fibriods! Thankfully, from Feb to October I had no periods and then pain started to settle. Then I bled again and the pain kicked off once more! I have two fibriods the largest being 4.5cms (not huge ) but it is on the back wall of my retroverted uterus, indenting the peritoneum which is pressing on my pelvic nerves and causing the back pain, heaviness and burning sensations in my buttocks. I have found that a TENS machine helps, I use this daily as by the evening when I want to sit down and relax, the pain is at its worst. Like many other women, the first and only option my gynaecologist gave me was a total hysterectomy and bilateral oopherectomy! I questioned why I would need everything removed, its only my uterus thats the problem and was told at my age I didn't need my reproductive organs and it was standard practice to remove everything just in case of future problems. I am fortunate that I have children and have no need to preserve my fertility at my age, but I am very reluctant to have such radical surgery with all the associated risks, long recovery period etc. After much research, I discovered the MRI Guided therapy at St. Mary's Hospital, Paddington and got a private appointment to see Professor Lesley Regan. I went private to save time as I was so tired of the pain. I am now currently waiting to see whether my local PCT will pay for my treatment as this is not readily available on the NHS. I feel it should be for all women who are suitable as far too many women have unnecessary major surgery. At £4400 this treatment is expensive for most women to fund themselves, therefore we are sometimes left with very little option but to opt for a hysterectomy to relieve our miserable symptoms. I am peri-menopausal and wonder whether my uterus and fibriods will start to shrink soon and relieve my pain? I cannot seem to find a definitive answer to this, does anyone know? As our eostrogen levels fall, the uterus shrinks, do the fibriods shrink also? Like many other women, I am very disappointed at the lack of really effective treatments for fibriods, they seem so common and cause so much heartache for many. I really don't know what I will do if my PCT refuse to pay, I think that is likely in the current financial times we are in. I have thought about a bank loan! Has anyone else had the MRI therapy at St. Mary's? how successful has it been, I would be very interested to hear from others. |
Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4ND [2010-11-21 20:47:18] |
|
S 's story |
| Embolisation |
Hi, I'm 44 and have 22 fibroids. I have one that is quite large (20cm), and the rest all vary in size from ping-pong ball to small apple.
I am due to have an embolisation at the end of the month. My only concern is if this works (which it should), then where are "they" going to go as I dont have inter-uterine, mine all seem to reside outside!
Having now read as much as I possibly can on this absolutely awful condition, I'm just really disappointed that there deosn't seem to be that many successful procedures out there for us! |
Woking GU24 9QR [2010-11-08 16:38:21] |
|
K 's story |
| my fibroid and surgery |
i have suffered from fibriods and polyops for a number of years now, which all seem to grow very quickly. I had a Microwave endemetrial ablation done in April of this year which did not cure my symptoms of heavy bleeding, i then suffered from a prolapse of the utrus so just 5 days ago i had a total hysterectomy. After surgery my doctor told me that they now know why i was suffering so much. I didn't actually have a prolaps, it was a very large fibriod, which was so heavy and attached to the inside of my womb that it was this that i could feel and see at the opening of my vagina but it was also pulling my womb inside out! Feeling great after surgery, if not tired. looking forwards to no more suffering. |
Coventry CV7 9GT [2010-11-08 12:33:28] |
|
Kathryn 's story |
| Katie: Fibroids & IUD |
I have fibroids, I've used a IUD for many years the last one disappeared into my womb getting caught behind a fibroid, the coil tails retracted and after several attempts by my GP to remove the coil.Then I was referred to Mr Shah at Shirley Clinic and he couldn't remove it either, I was then given an appointment to see him at Shirley Oaks hospital and had a hysteroscopy to remove the coil.It all went to plan and I was back at work two days later. |
Croydon CR0 5UT [2010-10-05 05:35:08] |
|
Brenda 's story |
| Endometrial Ablation |
I was diagnosed with 8 fibroids, of varying sizes in April 2009. My GP referred me to University College Hospital, London. The consultant uttered one word as a solution: Hysterectomy. At 42 I was not keen, yes my family was complete, but she mentioned a total hysterectomy. I asked my GP to refer me for a second opinion at St Mary's Hospital.I got an appointment with a Tariq Miskry. Before I saw him I had another appointment at UCH and mentioned I was seeking a second opinion at St Mary's, the consultant said try and see Tariq Miskry, without me even saying I was seeing him. I had my appointment with him and felt immediately secure in the knowledge he knew his stuff. He rejected a hysterectomy, and suggested Endometrial Ablation, and a few other options too. I had the ablation 20/09/2010, alongside a Hysteroscopic Resection. Maybe I was fortunate, but apart from stomach cramps, and very light bleeding, no adverse problems. However, it's early days as I my period is not due for another week or so, to give me a true picture. I highly recommend Mr Miskry, privately or NHS, even if it's just to seek an opinion only. I know the ablation has it's risk, but most of the other procedures do as well. Let's face it there will always be good and bad comments about various treatments. In the end my decision to have the ablation was based on my 100% confidence in Mr Miskry,and that he was highly praised by other women, in various internet forums. I am not recommending the ablation to anyone, as we all have to make our own informed decision. I was not keen on the ablation, or any other procedures mentioned on this website, but went ahead as Mr Miskry was doing the procedure, and I needed an alternative to a hysterectomy. |
London N17 0LR [2010-09-23 00:10:17] |
|
Mouse 's story |
| dodgy reasoning by gp |
my gp referred me to a gynaegologist for prolapse repair.Consultant advocated removal of uterus and vagina.i reurned to gp objecting and asked for second opinion refused and told dr\'s wife had had hysterectomy for fibroids and what was goo enough for her was good enough for me.Not happy,especially as I now observe hysterectomy is not always necessary even for fibroids.So fight,girls,and get the best deal you can. |
Birmingham B23 5RE [2010-08-29 16:14:52] |
|
SB 's story |
| my story |
hi i am a mom married with 4 kids when i had my first son who is 16yrs nw i was told by my dr i had a small fibroid then 2 yrs later i had my second son and was told the same story the only symtom i had was heavy bleeding post delivery for about a month 3 yrs later i had by third son then my daughter followed three yrs after during the later pregnancy i experienced some abdominal discomfort just recntly i felt a palpable lump at the bottom of my belly went to the gp who arrange a ultrasound and have reportd i have a fibrous uterous about 8 small one and a big one in all my uterus is about the size of a 13 weeks pregnancy i now only experience abdominal bloating,feeling like pressure in my belly and pain/discomfort during sex i have no post coital bleeding or heavy period, hysterectomy have been recommemded i need to know if there are not any other options.terrified!!!!! |
hertfordshire AL7 3TD [2010-08-24 04:50:00] |
|
Emily 's story |
| First time diagnosis |
Since christmas my waist has been getting bigger and bigger - I can't wear my skirts or trousers anymore. In May I started getting abdominal pain. It was similar to period pain but I knew that wasn't it. My GP didn't examine me and just said it was IBS. I had to go to the sex health clinic to get an examination and there I was told I could have PID so guidelines said I had to be prescribed antibiotics. The doc said she was concerned about my symptoms/wasn't 100% on the diagnosis and suggested I go for a scan. The antibiotics seemed to reduce the pain and reduce my stomach size a bit but not completely.
I lied then about my symptoms to the GP to get the ultrasound but still had to wait 5 weeks. The sonographer said I had a 'very large fibroid' and two smaller ones in my uterus. The results are currently missing so I can't say how large the 'very large' fibroid is. I was very worried hearing about a fibroid and my internet was down so wasn't able to find out much. I was wondering whether they were sure it wasn't cancer. I returned to the GP and he rolled his eyes at this question. I've now got a referral to a gynaecologist but this is 2 whole months away. Since my diagnosis the pain has been getting worse, seems more localised on my left side, my left leg is cramped and swollen today. I feel exhausted. I keep wonder if they've misdiagnosed me and I may die sudddenly. I did get frequent urination but this has stopped now and my periods are pretty much normal.
I'm quite worried especially as my mum died aged 40 from cancer. The GP said pain could only be from a fibroid twisting and this would present as sharp and sudden... so my pain must be from something else he says (though he's not offered to investigate). My large stomach he says is fat.
I assume he's wrong and my symptoms are fibroid symptoms (or at least symptoms from whatever they found down there). I am confused though cus I'm 32, slim, white, never smoked, no family history of fibrods, never used oral contraception. How did I get this? I did get attacked and kicked in the stomach 5 years ago - could this be the reason? I also have used talc and pessaries in the past.
I also want to know can this situation become an emergency? How accurate is the ultrasound (might something have been missed?). Thanks for any help you're able to give me. I really need some info. at the moment and GP is beyond useless. |
London E14 9QS [2010-08-17 12:32:38] |
|
A 's story |
| Doctors appointment |
I suspect I may have fibroids, in 2007 I was very anaemic, after talking with my doctor it was realised that my very heavy periods were the cause. I was prescribed iron tablets to treat the anaemia and tranexamic acid to help calm the bleeding down. The cause of my heavy bleeding was never looked into. Recently I have found that my mother and grandmother suffered the same as myself and both had fibroids. I read this website before visiting my doctor. All I want at this point is a scan to find out whether or not I actually do have fibroids. My doctor tried to put me off this by telling me that if I do have fibroids the only option would be to have an hysterectomy!!! I told him that I had been on the British Fibroid Trust website and that there are other options, as I am only 38 and have been trying for a baby for years and would still like that possibility. He then went on to tell me that there is always an option of a Myomectomy ..so a hysterectomy is not my only option like he first told me!! He also went on to say that Fibroids do not have any effect on your fertility?? After reading this website I know that is incorrect but didn\'t think it was worth telling him - I just want a scan to find out whether I actually do have fibroids, which he is now reluctantly requesting.
My point of this letter is DON\'T BE FOBBED OFF BY DOCTORS and Thank you British Fibroid Trust for your website :-) |
Preston PR1 0XL [2010-08-17 12:19:23] |
|
k 's story |
| mrs |
i am 42 years old. i have a grown up 22 year old daughter. i have suffered from pain in my belly for many years. my dr kept blaming it on my slipped discs. that the pain somehow would come forward into my belly, thus the pain. the pain in my belly has become unbearable now. i had an xray and pelvic ultrasound last month which revealed a bulky uterus with multiple fibroids in the subserosal posterior wall. i think 3 of them are large. i have asked my dr to put me forward for an operation as quickly as possible as i am drained from the pain. i have never had heavy periods. ever. every website i have been on state heavy periods when you type in fibroids. i dont have that but i have a lot of pain all the time. my question is how soon after your diagnosis do you get an appointment for their removal. i prefer not to have a hysterectomy but anything to stop this pain which is destroying my life now in every way. |
london N9 9GA [2010-08-17 10:56:41] |
|
S 's story |
| Moon Cup for heavy periods |
i have fibroids and just had one the size of an orange removed that was pressin down on my bladder and ovary.it took the docs 5 years to take me seriously.i am now 52. they kept telling me i would go through the menopause well i didnt and so glad they have removed the fibroid at last.
A fibroid still remainns in the back wall of my womb.
i have terrible floods for periods but the best thing i have found is using a MOON CUP internally
which Boots THE CHEMIST sell and 'Always' night-time pads which capture any leaks. |
London NW3 2JB [2010-08-04 16:14:57] |
|
SANDIE 's story |
| my stomach makes me look 5 months pregnant |
I was diagnosed with fibroids and an ovarian cyst two years ago. After a further scan 12 months ago the cyst had dissappeared possibly due to change in diet, swapping dairy to Soya products, don\'t know. The fibroids I was told to wait and see if they gave any problems, well I have been experiencing heavy bleeding, bloating which makes me look five months pregnant, however I was called for a cervical smear test two month ago the practice nurse was unable to locate cervix so referred me to our GPs well women clinic the Doctor was also unable to find my cervix she said due to having a retrovert womb. I was referred to hospital for an ultrasound scan and vaginal scan this was done yesterday no cysts were found but many fibroids some 3cm I am know waiting to obtain the full ersults from my GP in 7 days time but I am told I still need a cervical smear but no one seems able to do it, has anyone else had similar problems? I am also taking Agnus Castus Capsules as I have heard this can help with female problems. |
TAUNTON TA3 5LD [2010-07-20 12:28:20] |
|
pipa 's story |
| the worst hell ever |
Hi all i'm 42. i have suffered from fibroids for 8 years.2years ago I had the UAE procedure but it did not relieve my symptoms. I had it redone again 4 weeks ago. i'm having my period now one month after the procedure.It has been so heavy and full of huge clots and painful too. has anyone experienced this during their first period after the procedure? I'm going up the wall. been a prisoner in my house for 4 days. the flooding is so severe i have to used the super plus tampon and 2 sanitary towels one on top of the other to stop leaking everywhere. please help if you have gone through this. i'm so worried. |
london w10 4ep [2010-05-26 03:34:25] |
|
Louise 's story |
| Trying to get pregnant with fibroids |
I am 35, had a myomectomy 3 years ago and my periods are incredibly heavy again.Norethysterone is keeping the periods at bay. I am trying for children however clearly no success. I have recently discovered through this website and '2 women's health' website that a new procedure is available - MRI guided focus ablation. On this website it explains that this procedure is only for women who do not want children in the future however on the '2 women's health' the advice given is that women should wait for at least 3 months after the op to conceive. Can anyone please give advice as I have an appointment within the next 2 months with the IVF and Gyni clinic and I would like to go equipped with as much information and advice as possible?
Many thanks,
Louise |
Arbroath DD114RD [2010-04-25 13:56:26] |
|
Debbie 's story |
| FIBROIDS/PAIN |
I am 41 and for many years have had a lot of gyne problems. After many years my g.p discovered my linning of my womb was started to get thick! then thereafter i had a small fibroid followed by a larged one at the back of my overies which they were very painful along with the heavy periods.
Almost two years now and the fibroids had been removed and I am still suffering with the heavy periods and pain and my gyne informs me i sound like i am now suffering with endometriosis!
Does anyone know if fibroids come back after operations and how long!
|
London W8 6ef [2010-04-20 12:23:16] |
|
immaculate 's story |
| miss |
am 35 years and ihave been with fibroids for 7years ihave one child she is 7years and 3 miscarriages in 2005,2005 another 2009 i have very painful periods and lot of bleeding i would like to have an operation but west middlesex hospital takes its time to decide and idont know what to do |
hounslow tw3 3lf [2010-04-15 18:28:16] |
|
R 's story |
| fibroids and infertility |
I was diagnosed with fibroids when I was 27 and had the embolisation treatment, that was available in London as a clinical trial. that appeared to deal with the heavy periods and bladder infections so consequently I did not think much more about them until recently. I've been trying to get pregnant for 2.5 years and have just started having tests. all the blood tests were normal, leading the gynacologist to conlcude the fibroids are the problem. theere are apparently several subserosal fibroids but the ultrasound was inconclusive so the next step is an MRI or CT scan, followed by possibly myomectomy. If anyone has experience of getting pregant with fibroids or following treatment from fibroids, I'd be grateful to hear from you! |
Gloucestershire GL [2010-03-31 19:41:17] |
|
Eileen 's story |
| Miss |
I was diagnosed with a fibroid at my twelve week pregancy scan. Had it monitored for a year after and as it caused no issues I left it. Six months ago I noticed I looked pregnant and went back to my GP, after initial tests and going to various Drs was seen by the surgeon who I was under during my pregnancy. This was at the beginnig of the week. He promptly told me that it was now the size of a 32 weeks pregancy and I am booked in for a hysterectomy in two weeks time. I did not question it at the time as I was too upset but have now asked to see him next week. I do not want this proceedure and am very upset and depressed at the thought of it. Is there any reason he could give that means this is my only option? |
Durham SR7 7HU [2010-01-08 23:02:28] |
|
Ilita 's story |
| Dealing with fibroids |
I was first diagnosed with fibroids in 2000. My periods lasted for 7-10 days were very painful and heavy. I was aneamic, taking nurofen and iron tablets constantly, my cycle was anything between 18-23 days. I had two operations which were laparoscopic resection of fibroids which made very little difference. Within 2 months the heavy bleeding and pain returned. I then started research on fibroids. I started to take fibroid clear in feb 2009, I changed my diet, stopped eating chicken, sugary foods, cut out cheese, prawns which i love and really started to monitor what i ate. I also stopped using cosmetics with all the parabens etc. I started acupuncture and chinese medicine in September 09. My periods are now so much better, I do not take any painkillers throughout my periods, my cycle is now 27 days and the blood flow is more like a normal period. Not heavy and constantly flooding. When i asked the consultants/specialists if there was anything i could do to help my fibroids i was told NO. That is not true. You really can cure yourself, it just takes time, patience and discipline. I have suffered for years similar to alot of other ladies was always off work, couldnt go out. My life has really changed now. Dont let the doctors whip out your womb, try to heal yourself first. I hope this helps other women out there with the same problems. |
London SE22 0HP [2009-12-17 13:12:43] |
|
P 's story |
| Dealing with fibroids |
I am now 43 years old and I was diagnosed with fibroids when I was about 28 years old. I had my first operation which was a myomectomy about 14 years ago. I also had a cyst remove from one of my ovaries. I was told by my doctor that the fibroids would return which they have. I have no children although trying for years to conceive. I tried having assisted contraception where I ended up having a major operation as a result of a blood vessel being clipped in a lapascopy. As a result both my tubes were now blocked instead of one previously. In 2007, I started having bleeding betweem my periods I was then referred by my GP to the hospital where I did a number of ultra sounds, MRI and blood tests.
The prognosis was not good. I have numerous fibroids on the outside of my uterus,large and small ones plus a cyst on my left ovary. The doctors suggested a hysterectomy and this would be a high risk as I have had a few operations already. Thinking about this and how I feel within myself, I knew that I was not ready for a hyterectomy, so I started reading alot about fibroids, the treatments especially natural/complementary options. A few years before I had started to seek out nautural treatments, but now new that I really had to do something by educating myself and try other treatments. First I started doing acupuncture, chinese medicines, change of my diet by cutting out most diary foods, tried foods, eat less meat now I eat mostly fish instead of red meat and chicken. I have also started visualization/meditation, exercising and stretching, recently done yoga as it said yoga helps. I have been feeling very good in my body, my periods are now regular like clockwork. I have done another MRI which my doctor recommends to see how things are going. This I will find out soon. What I find has really help me in term of information was this book written by a doctor called Healing fibroids A doctor's Guide to a Natural Cure By Allan Warshowsky, M.D., and Elena Oumano. I brought on the internet. It has really given me an insight in the causes of uterine fibroids and what you can do patient to make your life better and of course to take charge of your life. I have my experience will help as well as inspire other women to take charge of their lives and to be able to change your life style to make your life better. |
London SW2 3TP [2009-11-10 22:11:20] |
|
Faith 's story |
| My Story |
I was first diagnosed with fibroids in 2003 or so. Prior to this time, i noticed that my periods were long, extremely painful and dark clots. I was in a very serious relationship then. Sadly for me the relationship ended because in our society,there is a misconception that once a woman has fibroid she's often unable to get pregnant.Infact i was scorned by some of neighbours especially as i was still single then.It was a sad period of my life..i lost someone i thought cared for about me and the operation was so painful, more painful than childbirth.
Thanks to God today i'm happily married to a wonderful man and i have 2 kids . |
Port Harcourt P.O. Box 24 [2009-08-11 16:48:06] |
|
Annette 's story |
| Abdominal Myomectomy - My Experience |
Hello,
I was fortunate enough to find this website when I was searching the net, finding ways to deal with my unwelcome visitors! I had a abdominal myomectomy and cystectomy on May 19th of this year and wanted to share my experience with everyone.
I have been dealing with fibroids and a large endometrial (sp) cyst since my late 30's - I am now 45. I don't have any children and at this point probably not - at least not my own! Like many of you once my fibroids and cyst were diagnosed with ultra sound, I pretty much played the "watchful waiting" game. Of course every month I cursed my body and agonized over what to do. I never had a period problem until my late 30's when the fibroids began to make me bleed heavily (super duper tampon soaked in an hour),cause pain and cramping and oh yea, the bloating! I too like many of you did not want surgery and pretty much since I was never anemic, my doctor left everything up to me. I played around with the thought of hysterectomy, myomectomy etc, etc for years.
I had a follow up ultrasound in January of this year and it showed that the cyst had grown to the size of a lemon. The ultrasound showed the 3 fibroids - 1 on the large size 8cm or so and the other 2 smaller to be pretty much the same size, no significant change. At this point my doctor helped me with more options about what I could do. While it 'seemed' obvious that nothing was malignant we could not be 100% sure unless I had the cyst removed. I had the blood tests etc., and everything was "normal" and nothing appeared canerous or out of the ordinary. I have been going to my doctor for over 10 years and I have the utmost confidence in his knowledge and ability.
At this point I knew for sure that I wanted the cyst out and while I was at it - deal with the fibroids once and for all. I was DONE with them and the symptoms they caused - they were affecting my life in almost everything I did, work, travel, fun, you name it - when you are bleeding like no tomorrow it really is awful! Back and forth I went with non-invasive procedures etc. My doctor even spoke to some of his colleagues for me. My doctor also explained to me that my 1 fibroid was large AND due to its location in my uterus - I probably would not be a candidate for a less invasive procedure. My doctor has done MANY, MANY (doctor for over 27 years) abdominal myomectomy's (even did 1 on a friend of mine). Right then and there I decided to have my own doctor perform my surgery. May 19th I had my fibroids removed and the cyst - 9 fibroids were removed (still shocked at that) and the lemon sized cyst and I got to keep all my parts!
Fast forward to today 2 1/2 months after my abdominal myomectomy and cystectomy. I have had 2 periods so far and honestly it was worth it 100%. My periods are "normal" no more flooding, no more pain, no more serious bloat!!! Hey, going to take months for my body to get back to "normal", belly is still swollen, energy level is getting there but still a bit low, just completed my 4th week back at work and every day I feel just a bit better!!! Run on sentence there sorry! I could go on about my hospital experience (great by the way) and I might do so later. I just felt like sharing with everyone out there that you have a right to feel good and to not let fibroids take over your life. Go out and get second opions, talk to people, learn all you can (this forum is a great place) and first and foremost - have a doctor you TRUST. If you don't trust your doctor, move on and find someone else. Everyone is going to have their own experience's good and bad. I know the fear, I know the aprehension, I know that surgery is scary - I felt like I was out of body the whole time!! Probably was......:) Please just take one day at a time and look at all your options. I am EXTREMELY happy with my decision and of course wondered to myself. why did I wait so long?'.
Please feel free to drop me a note or comment as I would be more than happy to chat about my experience further. And yes.....those mesh undies do exist and I was very happy to be rid of them when I left the hospital!!
Best of luck to everyone out there!
Annette |
Marin County, California 94939 [2009-08-03 03:34:03] |
|
Julie 's story |
| 57!! |
I have a fibroid that is sticking through my cervical opening. I am 57 years old. I had a vaginal ultrasound that cause heavy heavy bleeding with lots of clots.......I went to the hospital about 9 days after I started having heavy bleeding.
My hemoglobin was at 8.1. I received a transfusion. Felt pretty terrible - because believe me - for me to go to the hospital I was really sick!
Found a good doctor who is going to perform a Vaginal Myomectomy this month to remove the fibroid.
My heavy bleeding has completely stopped now but I am going to have the surgery this month. I think I almost died from the bleeding.
Can\'t give you anymore info until I have the fibroid removed. I first got diagnosed with the fiborid at the age of 52.
Thanks for listening,
Julie In Southern California USA |
Huntington Beach 92688 [2009-06-03 05:33:06] |
|
Charmaine 's story |
| Fibroids look like im 6 months pregnant |
I had fibroid embolisation back in 04, it did seem to work on the fibroids that were in the womb, but it was a very painfull procedure.Last november i found a big lump in my stomach, i went to the doctor who said it felt like i was 22 weeks pregnant and asked me if i was pregnant which i knew i wasnt...So she sent me for a scan, which was inconclusive the women who was doing the scan told me i had 2 big masses but she couldnt tell me what they were.So i was sent to see a gynnaecologist who was indian, i couldnt understand a word she was saying and she couldnt understand me.Anyway i was told it was better for me to have a hysterectomy, because if i didnt and just had the fibroids removed, the fibroids would grow back anyway.So for the last 4 months i have been on prostop injections to help shrink the fibroids ready for surgery which i am having in 2 weeks time.I dont want an hysterectomy but thats all they have offered me.I have received no advice or help what so ever,i am 49 years of age, pre menopausal so they seem to think because i wont be having anymore children they should just whip it out!!! |
Bridgend cf313dn [2009-05-18 11:17:08] |
|
Debbie 's story |
| Fibroids |
i have just found another specialist who is going to do the operation i want - not an hysterectomy - a resection - the first specialist i believe was a butcher - gave me injections i did not need plus taking 11 tablets which would not work because of the position of the fibroid - seek another opinion if you are not happy - my new guy is fab - has not mentioned hystectomy at all! i am having it done in the next few weeks - i have been bleeding for 8 months solid since the last guy took a biopsy - one had been done a month before on the NHS - it beggars belief! |
Cardiff CF3 2UR [2009-04-22 15:57:25] |
|
R 's story |
| Story of my 2 fibroids |
I found out I had one fibroid a couple of years ago but it did not bother me as it was quite small.
In February 2008, I went for an abdominal massage because I was having really bad periods. My masseuse found a huge fibroid. At that time I was extremely overweight and did not notice this fibroid, only when I felt down, did I find it. It is the about 6 inches big and extremely round. When I lie down it is like lying on a beach ball. Now I have lost the weight, it sticks out.
My periods are terrible, long drawn out painful affairs and I have bled so much that I am now anaemic. I flood for about 2 days and pretty much have to change my super plus tampon and pad every hour. I try not to go out during these 2 days as I find it too much of a hassle, plus I feel so tired.
I have tried the contraceptive pill and tranxemic acid but to no avail. I went for a hysteroscopy op (camera in vagina and take samples of fibroid) in Jan 09. The coil was meant to go in but the womb was so stretched with the fibroid that he could not put it in, it would have just fallen straight out again. The surgeon was shocked at just how big the fibroid was.
I've had an MRI and got an ultrasound next week. I am also going to speak to the surgeon to discuss my test results. He is desperately trying to avoid a hysterectomy and I hope that is not the option that is left to me.
If I have the option to leave the fibroid or have a hysterectomy I am not sure what I will do. I expect I will be having an op in July 09, I will keep you ladies updated. |
Reading RG30 1AR [2009-02-27 19:51:20] |
|
Lorna 's story |
| Fibroids & IUS |
I have been having what I would consider heavy periods due to fibroids for around 10 months now. My GP was great and referred me to a gyneacologist at a London hospital. My periods have been having a real effect on my quality of life; I have had to take time off work due to the heaviness of my priod and feel fed up with the whole thing! I have just had an IUS fitted (literally week ending Oct 3rd 2008) so am waiting and hoping that I will notice a difference in the coming months. Its pretty bad right now though.
Recently I found out I've got ovarian cysts too !. |
London E1W 1LQ [2008-10-03 16:38:07] |
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