It's been 13 years since last ob-gyn visit

[Pennypuppy]

Hi everyone.

Well call my dumb but I thought that without a uterus I didn't have to worry about pap tests.

I'm 47 and had a hysterectomy 13 years ago and thought I didn't have to worry any more. Well I told my doctor today about this pain I've been having off and on for a few weeks now. He told me (after giving me a stern talking to) that he wanted me to see an OB ASAP. I wasn't going to bother with it until he told it could be cysts or a precancerous cyst.

The pain I feel reminds me of when I was having a period and the pressure from my bowels would push on my ovaries and make them ache. Since I don't have periods I can't tell when things are abnormal.

Do these symptom sound familiar to anyone? I also need to know how to go about finding a good ob-gyn. Any ideas?

[Grateful06]

Just want to encourage you to be seen, it is probably nothing, but ovarian cancer is something that needs to be caught as soon as possible, so better to be safe than sorry.  You must still have your ovaries, and if you do and are symptomatic, you should see an OB tomorrow.  Don't wait another day, it is that important.  Let us know what happens and take care.

[Gatsby]

I agree, do not wait another day.  You need to get this checked out.  If you can, try to find an gyn/onc.  They are specialists in this area and do not do double duty delivering babies.  Strictly gyn issues.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  Godspeed
~Tascha

[xrayu2]

A friend of mine thought she did not have to see a gyn after her hyst, too.  The doctor asked her as question:Do you still have vaginal walls? She answered of course, Yes.  Well pap and pelvic exams cover more than just a uterus.  Some docs recommend yearly paps but some only recommend it every other year.  While you are at it, have your annual mammogram if you have not had it yet.

[Pennypuppy]

Wow you ladies are so nice! I'm going to find a gyn today and make an appointment. Again, thanks so much!