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Having surgery this week! Please advise...
I am a nervous wreck! I'm having surgery this Thursday! I have so many questions! I just turned 29 years old two days ago. What a way to have spent my birthday! I was giving blood at the lab for my Pre-Op, picking up slides of the images from my ultrasound, and registering at the hospital for the surgery!!
I have been suffering for years with so many debilitating symptoms since around the age of 16. My general physician thinks I’m a hypochondriac and tells me to stay off of the internet! Well, the internet has been more useful than he has! I am hoping to get some questions answered and get some much needed advice.
My Stats:
Four years ago I gave birth to a beautiful daughter, who is apparently a miracle child, as I’m believed to be totally infertile right now. During the pregnancy I suffered with gestational diabetes and had to monitor my blood sugar by pricking my finger several times a day, meeting with a Nutritionist/following a strict diet, and towards the end of my pregnancy, I even had to inject insulin in to my pregnant tummy! NO FUN!
Following the pregnancy I was determined to have an under active thyroid and referred to an Endocrinologist. I have been on thyroid replacement therapy ever since.
Finally, earlier this year I convinced my Endocrinologist to run more tests on me as I am always feeling generally ill. Every time I complained of a slew of symptoms I was met with the same response… It’s my anxiety; it’s all in my head; that’s all common with an under active thyroid…
So a few months ago, he took me seriously as I insisted that he check every hormone that exists in the human body. He was convinced that he would not find anything, but said that my peace of mind is of importance to my overall health, so he reluctantly agreed to run an abundance of lab tests. Lo and behold, he calls me back to say I have elevated androgen levels (male hormones), namely Testosterone and thinks I have PCOS. I went in for a Dexamethasone Suppression Test (twice- since the inexperienced Nurse did it wrong the first time) to rule out Cushing’s Syndrome and Congenital Adrenal Dysplasia. My LH to FSH ratio also indicated PCOS.
I finally had my diagnosis! I could easily be a case for an episode of “Mystery Diagnosis!” I believe that PCOS was a previous episode. In the last few months things have progressed quite rapidly. I was put on Metformin (the extended release, generic version) at the highest daily dose (2,000mg/day), which has significantly improved my symptoms, although they are all still there- acne, belly fat, hair loss, oily skin, insulin resistance, dark spots, migraines, etc…
Even though I was diagnosed with PCOS, my Endo did not feel an ultrasound (to check for cysts on the ovaries) was immediately necessary! I, of course, insisted and it was my Gynecologist who agreed to authorize the procedure. That was July 3rd of this year. Turns out my left ovary has multiple cysts measuring 11.8 cu cm., and my right is even worse at 15.9 cu cm.!!! There is a slight amount of fluid in the cul de sac, but my uterus looked okay otherwise. So I called my General Physician to inform him of the results of the ultrasound and he said I must be mistaken! Am I sure that they’re cm, not mm? I am sure… I am staring at the report! "Well that would be the size of an orange he said!" NO KIDDING!!! What a joke that doctor is!
My Gynecologist is scheduled to perform a mini bilateral laparoscopy/cystectomy of both ovaries this Thursday. My concern is that I have not gotten a second opinion. I was not referred to an Oncologist. I DO trust my Gyno 100%. He’s the only one that actually listens to me and takes me seriously and he has like 50 years of experience (he's a much older man). He is very calm and cool about the whole thing like it's no big deal and he does this all the time. So I do not think I should have to worry. But this feels a little rushed. He said a laparoscopic procedure would not be safe because of the size of the cysts; and the watch and wait approach is not feasible at this point because they are too large to go away on their own.
I am anxious and excited about having the procedure. I am hopeful that the elevated homocysteine levels and androgenic effects that these cysts release/cause will be minimized as a result of the surgery; that my fertility will be restored, my chronic lower back pain will diminish, and that my overall health will improve. Although, I am fully aware that the cysts will likely begin to develop again right away. I am hopeful that through proper diet, exercise, and an overall healthy lifestyle that I will overcome this horrible disease.
Questions:
- How long did it take to recover form this procedure?
- What is your scarring like? Doc claims it will be 2 incisions no more than 2 inches each near the pubic bone so they won't show in a swimsuit. Can that be right?
- How long until intercourse can be resumed following the surgery? I am assuming it is a number of weeks?
- Should he have done a CT or MRI?
- The ultrasound is the only test he performed prior to scheduling me for surgery.
- What can I expect after surgery in terms of the positive side? Weight loss, overall feeling of better health/ increased energy, etc.
I am looking for hope and some positive re-assurance ladies! Any thoughts, opinions, advice, encouragement, or personal stories would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for reading this!
~Candice
I have been suffering for years with so many debilitating symptoms since around the age of 16. My general physician thinks I’m a hypochondriac and tells me to stay off of the internet! Well, the internet has been more useful than he has! I am hoping to get some questions answered and get some much needed advice.
My Stats:
Four years ago I gave birth to a beautiful daughter, who is apparently a miracle child, as I’m believed to be totally infertile right now. During the pregnancy I suffered with gestational diabetes and had to monitor my blood sugar by pricking my finger several times a day, meeting with a Nutritionist/following a strict diet, and towards the end of my pregnancy, I even had to inject insulin in to my pregnant tummy! NO FUN!
Following the pregnancy I was determined to have an under active thyroid and referred to an Endocrinologist. I have been on thyroid replacement therapy ever since.
Finally, earlier this year I convinced my Endocrinologist to run more tests on me as I am always feeling generally ill. Every time I complained of a slew of symptoms I was met with the same response… It’s my anxiety; it’s all in my head; that’s all common with an under active thyroid…
So a few months ago, he took me seriously as I insisted that he check every hormone that exists in the human body. He was convinced that he would not find anything, but said that my peace of mind is of importance to my overall health, so he reluctantly agreed to run an abundance of lab tests. Lo and behold, he calls me back to say I have elevated androgen levels (male hormones), namely Testosterone and thinks I have PCOS. I went in for a Dexamethasone Suppression Test (twice- since the inexperienced Nurse did it wrong the first time) to rule out Cushing’s Syndrome and Congenital Adrenal Dysplasia. My LH to FSH ratio also indicated PCOS.
I finally had my diagnosis! I could easily be a case for an episode of “Mystery Diagnosis!” I believe that PCOS was a previous episode. In the last few months things have progressed quite rapidly. I was put on Metformin (the extended release, generic version) at the highest daily dose (2,000mg/day), which has significantly improved my symptoms, although they are all still there- acne, belly fat, hair loss, oily skin, insulin resistance, dark spots, migraines, etc…
Even though I was diagnosed with PCOS, my Endo did not feel an ultrasound (to check for cysts on the ovaries) was immediately necessary! I, of course, insisted and it was my Gynecologist who agreed to authorize the procedure. That was July 3rd of this year. Turns out my left ovary has multiple cysts measuring 11.8 cu cm., and my right is even worse at 15.9 cu cm.!!! There is a slight amount of fluid in the cul de sac, but my uterus looked okay otherwise. So I called my General Physician to inform him of the results of the ultrasound and he said I must be mistaken! Am I sure that they’re cm, not mm? I am sure… I am staring at the report! "Well that would be the size of an orange he said!" NO KIDDING!!! What a joke that doctor is!
My Gynecologist is scheduled to perform a mini bilateral laparoscopy/cystectomy of both ovaries this Thursday. My concern is that I have not gotten a second opinion. I was not referred to an Oncologist. I DO trust my Gyno 100%. He’s the only one that actually listens to me and takes me seriously and he has like 50 years of experience (he's a much older man). He is very calm and cool about the whole thing like it's no big deal and he does this all the time. So I do not think I should have to worry. But this feels a little rushed. He said a laparoscopic procedure would not be safe because of the size of the cysts; and the watch and wait approach is not feasible at this point because they are too large to go away on their own.
I am anxious and excited about having the procedure. I am hopeful that the elevated homocysteine levels and androgenic effects that these cysts release/cause will be minimized as a result of the surgery; that my fertility will be restored, my chronic lower back pain will diminish, and that my overall health will improve. Although, I am fully aware that the cysts will likely begin to develop again right away. I am hopeful that through proper diet, exercise, and an overall healthy lifestyle that I will overcome this horrible disease.
Questions:
- How long did it take to recover form this procedure?
- What is your scarring like? Doc claims it will be 2 incisions no more than 2 inches each near the pubic bone so they won't show in a swimsuit. Can that be right?
- How long until intercourse can be resumed following the surgery? I am assuming it is a number of weeks?
- Should he have done a CT or MRI?
- The ultrasound is the only test he performed prior to scheduling me for surgery.
- What can I expect after surgery in terms of the positive side? Weight loss, overall feeling of better health/ increased energy, etc.
I am looking for hope and some positive re-assurance ladies! Any thoughts, opinions, advice, encouragement, or personal stories would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for reading this!
~Candice
Best Answer
I was also very glad to read your update! I am so happy you are recovering quickly. Best wishes for continued healing!
Shelly
Shelly
Thank you Candice. That was a great re-telling of your experience and should be very helpful to anyone facing similar surgery. Congratulations on getting past this ordeal and bravo to your great doctor. Now REST. Don't be misled into thinking you are healed too soon. Take it easy and if you feel sore, stop and rest some more!
wow candice tats just brillent for anyone nervous of surgery well done i wish you a speedy recovery and hope all this is behind you and you are a new woman i will keep you in my prayers keep posted you are a great asset to our forum pleanty of rest now be good to yourself x
I had nothing but a few ice chips all day on the day of my surgery. The next morning I began a liquid diet that consisted of vegetable broth, red gelatin (JELLO), cranberry juice, tea, and water for breakfast. Lunch was chicken broth, orange gelatin, grape juice, tea, and water. Dinner was beef broth, green gelatin, apple juice, tea, and water. I was okay with it the first day. But my doctor had told me that I would be able to eat the next day. The next day I actually wound up getting liquid meals for breakfast and lunch again before I saw my doctor. He showed me where on the order he had written that I could begin eating solids on Saturday morning, but the Nurses didn’t follow it correctly. He immediately ordered me a real meal- if you could call it that! Some kind of unsalted pasta with meat and sauce, with a piece of wheat bread and butter, and a side of (over) cooked carrots with juice and a sliver of pound cake. I was just delighted to have real food. My IV was removed, the doc took off my bandages and instructed me about how to hold my stomach if I needed to cough or laugh or strain to use the bathroom. He explained that he did some ovarian drilling to restore my fertility and reduce the high levels of androgens (male hormones) that I was experiencing. He explained that some tingling/numbness/tightness in that area was all normal and would eventually go back to feeling normal. My stitches will dissolve inside and do not need to be removed.
My doctor is a GODSEND! He is a doll! He was so amazing throughout the entire thing! He met with me 2 days before the procedure, then again just prior to surgery. He came up to my room the day after my surgery and answered all of my questions. I felt so confident with him as my doctor. He is a PRO! He came up on the 2nd day and ordered that meal stat! He then went down to shower and change from surgery and came back up to check on me and bring me an apple! That was so thoughtful. I was being released and my sister was on her way for me. But since he realized that I was alone, he actually called back up to my room and offered me a ride home! We apparently live very close to one another. I thanked him and let him know my sister was on her way. He called me at home for the next two days (yesterday and today) to check on me! I have the best doctor in the world! I am now on 800mg of Ibuprofen every 8 hours to control pain. I am in minimal discomfort; mostly bored! I have been able to shower and move around okay. I am being told I can drive myself to my follow-up which is scheduled exactly one week from my surgery- this coming Thursday, and if I feel up to it I can return to my desk job 4 weeks post surgery. Usual recovery time is 6-8 weeks, but my doctor says if I feel like I can do it, it’s fine. I am already beginning to feel the wonderful effects of the surgery! I no longer have that horrible pain in my back. I actually feel better now, even while I recover from this incision, then I did before my surgery. My skin is already amazingly way less oily and my hair seems to have slowed down from falling out! I am amazed. We tested my homocysteine, androstenedione ( a byproduct of the cysts that causes enlarged breasts and an elevated sex drive amongst other issues), Vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid levels, before surgery and will check them again post surgery. I will be put on birth control pills and I am currently on my period (no fun). I hope this post has been helpful to you. Thanks again for the support ladies! Take care and best wishes to all of you as you struggle with similar issues. Feel free to respond with questions or comments. I will keep you all posted!
Much Love,
Candice
My doctor is a GODSEND! He is a doll! He was so amazing throughout the entire thing! He met with me 2 days before the procedure, then again just prior to surgery. He came up to my room the day after my surgery and answered all of my questions. I felt so confident with him as my doctor. He is a PRO! He came up on the 2nd day and ordered that meal stat! He then went down to shower and change from surgery and came back up to check on me and bring me an apple! That was so thoughtful. I was being released and my sister was on her way for me. But since he realized that I was alone, he actually called back up to my room and offered me a ride home! We apparently live very close to one another. I thanked him and let him know my sister was on her way. He called me at home for the next two days (yesterday and today) to check on me! I have the best doctor in the world! I am now on 800mg of Ibuprofen every 8 hours to control pain. I am in minimal discomfort; mostly bored! I have been able to shower and move around okay. I am being told I can drive myself to my follow-up which is scheduled exactly one week from my surgery- this coming Thursday, and if I feel up to it I can return to my desk job 4 weeks post surgery. Usual recovery time is 6-8 weeks, but my doctor says if I feel like I can do it, it’s fine. I am already beginning to feel the wonderful effects of the surgery! I no longer have that horrible pain in my back. I actually feel better now, even while I recover from this incision, then I did before my surgery. My skin is already amazingly way less oily and my hair seems to have slowed down from falling out! I am amazed. We tested my homocysteine, androstenedione ( a byproduct of the cysts that causes enlarged breasts and an elevated sex drive amongst other issues), Vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid levels, before surgery and will check them again post surgery. I will be put on birth control pills and I am currently on my period (no fun). I hope this post has been helpful to you. Thanks again for the support ladies! Take care and best wishes to all of you as you struggle with similar issues. Feel free to respond with questions or comments. I will keep you all posted!
Much Love,
Candice
I am alive and well! Thank you all again for all of your responses and support. I had my surgery last week Thursday. The doctor promised me a small incision and he kept his word. It is about 2 and a half inches from what I can tell, underneath the dressings. The procedure lasted about an hour. He went in from just above my pubic hair line and made a horizontal cut (lengthwise) like a C-Section. He popped many liquid filled cysts on my right ovary and removed a benign mass from my left ovary. All pathology came out okay. The ultrasound originally looked as if the left was smaller than the right. But he said this happens often as the cysts hang backwards and it is difficult to know on which ovary they are attached until you get in there!
For those of you who are hoping to know what to expect… I began by arriving 3 hours prior to my scheduled time as instructed in the admitting area for surgery patients. This is the same place where I had pre-registered for my procedure a week prior. They verified my identity and what procedure I was having and put my ID bracelet on me. Then a hospital volunteer was called over and she escorted me up to another floor of the hospital where there was a waiting room for people having surgery. My sister was by my side for all of this. About an hour later I was called in and my sister was made to wait in that room. The Nurse took me in to another room, checked my ID bracelet, verified my name and DOB (as they did many times throughout my stay), and began my intake. She weighed me, took a urine sample to rule out pregnancy, and checked my temperature and blood pressure. She then gave me a hospital gown, a hair net, and no-slid socks and instructed me to disrobe completely and put my clothes in a bag. From there we entered a large room where many patients were getting ready for surgery. My sister was allowed to join me again. I was asked a million and one questions about my medical history, allergies, previous surgeries/anesthesia, medicines I take, and so on. An IV was placed in my forearm, but my vein was too weak there, so the Nurse removed it (ouch) and put it in my hand. Once it was in it didn’t hurt, but getting it in there was quite uncomfortable. I later got a bruise on my forearm from the first failed attempt.
About an hour later I was ready for surgery! It was right on time! I was scheduled at 12:30pm and I was being wheeled out of there around 12:15pm. Two individuals came to get me, wheeled my hospital bed out of one set of doors, down an elevator and through another set of silver double doors. I jokingly said, “I’m already going to the morgue!” It was a low floor in the hospital and it was cold down there. They assured me that I was not. Again, my sister was still with me all this time. A few minutes later, I was met by the OR Nurse and again she verified my ID. Then the Anesthesiologist came in and introduced himself; a nice young and confident doctor. I felt surprisingly calm. He explained that he would have me move over on to the operating table and as soon as he injected me with the anesthesia I wouldn’t remember anything until I woke up in recovery. My OBGYN/surgeon came in right around 12:25 or 12:30 and we were ready to go right on time! They then wheeled me out of that room and in to the operating room. I said my goodbyes to my sister as they wheeled me through the doors to the operating room. She was asked to wait upstairs in the gift shop and told the doctor would go up and inform her of the outcome of my surgery as soon as it concluded.
When I awoke I was in the recovery room and quite groggy. I was in a bit of pain, but they had me all hooked up to a narcotics drip called Dilaudid (Hydromorphone) for the pain. It was on a continuous drip with a button that I could push every 10 minutes for a slightly stringer dose to kick in. The recovery room was filled with patients and nurses trying to find rooms for us. My sister told me that it took about 3 hours from the time I was in the recovery room from just before 2pm until 5:15pm before they brought me up to my room! It didn’t feel that long to me as I was totally out of it. I was first placed in a shared room with another woman and her kids, and the TV on, and a lot of noise… I asked to be moved and was quickly taken to a private room where I remained alone for the next 2 nights thanks to my private insurance! The nurses were all very nice to me and I felt comfortable. They had placed a catheter in me during the surgery that was removed before I awoke. I felt an urge to urinate but could not for quite a while (several hours) after the surgery. This was probably due to the fact that I had nothing to drink or eat for an entire day at that point. I eventually got myself to begin urinating as they were going to stick another catheter in me to release my urine and I really didn’t want that. The doctor ordered a complete blood count (CBC) on the morning after surgery. My white blood cell count came up elevated (normal is 11K, mine was 17,200). They thought I might have a urinary tract infection and immediately took a urine sample. It came back normal. They attributed the elevated WBC’s to the cysts being opened and my body fighting to heal. The pain drip was discontinued 24 hours after my procedure and I was put on Vicodin every four hours after that. I was quite itchy from the anesthesia for the first couple of days. I was also quite anxious to see what was underneath the top bandage that covered the entire abdomen. I was given stool softeners and gas pills the entire time as well. (maximum characters reached - continued on next post)
For those of you who are hoping to know what to expect… I began by arriving 3 hours prior to my scheduled time as instructed in the admitting area for surgery patients. This is the same place where I had pre-registered for my procedure a week prior. They verified my identity and what procedure I was having and put my ID bracelet on me. Then a hospital volunteer was called over and she escorted me up to another floor of the hospital where there was a waiting room for people having surgery. My sister was by my side for all of this. About an hour later I was called in and my sister was made to wait in that room. The Nurse took me in to another room, checked my ID bracelet, verified my name and DOB (as they did many times throughout my stay), and began my intake. She weighed me, took a urine sample to rule out pregnancy, and checked my temperature and blood pressure. She then gave me a hospital gown, a hair net, and no-slid socks and instructed me to disrobe completely and put my clothes in a bag. From there we entered a large room where many patients were getting ready for surgery. My sister was allowed to join me again. I was asked a million and one questions about my medical history, allergies, previous surgeries/anesthesia, medicines I take, and so on. An IV was placed in my forearm, but my vein was too weak there, so the Nurse removed it (ouch) and put it in my hand. Once it was in it didn’t hurt, but getting it in there was quite uncomfortable. I later got a bruise on my forearm from the first failed attempt.
About an hour later I was ready for surgery! It was right on time! I was scheduled at 12:30pm and I was being wheeled out of there around 12:15pm. Two individuals came to get me, wheeled my hospital bed out of one set of doors, down an elevator and through another set of silver double doors. I jokingly said, “I’m already going to the morgue!” It was a low floor in the hospital and it was cold down there. They assured me that I was not. Again, my sister was still with me all this time. A few minutes later, I was met by the OR Nurse and again she verified my ID. Then the Anesthesiologist came in and introduced himself; a nice young and confident doctor. I felt surprisingly calm. He explained that he would have me move over on to the operating table and as soon as he injected me with the anesthesia I wouldn’t remember anything until I woke up in recovery. My OBGYN/surgeon came in right around 12:25 or 12:30 and we were ready to go right on time! They then wheeled me out of that room and in to the operating room. I said my goodbyes to my sister as they wheeled me through the doors to the operating room. She was asked to wait upstairs in the gift shop and told the doctor would go up and inform her of the outcome of my surgery as soon as it concluded.
When I awoke I was in the recovery room and quite groggy. I was in a bit of pain, but they had me all hooked up to a narcotics drip called Dilaudid (Hydromorphone) for the pain. It was on a continuous drip with a button that I could push every 10 minutes for a slightly stringer dose to kick in. The recovery room was filled with patients and nurses trying to find rooms for us. My sister told me that it took about 3 hours from the time I was in the recovery room from just before 2pm until 5:15pm before they brought me up to my room! It didn’t feel that long to me as I was totally out of it. I was first placed in a shared room with another woman and her kids, and the TV on, and a lot of noise… I asked to be moved and was quickly taken to a private room where I remained alone for the next 2 nights thanks to my private insurance! The nurses were all very nice to me and I felt comfortable. They had placed a catheter in me during the surgery that was removed before I awoke. I felt an urge to urinate but could not for quite a while (several hours) after the surgery. This was probably due to the fact that I had nothing to drink or eat for an entire day at that point. I eventually got myself to begin urinating as they were going to stick another catheter in me to release my urine and I really didn’t want that. The doctor ordered a complete blood count (CBC) on the morning after surgery. My white blood cell count came up elevated (normal is 11K, mine was 17,200). They thought I might have a urinary tract infection and immediately took a urine sample. It came back normal. They attributed the elevated WBC’s to the cysts being opened and my body fighting to heal. The pain drip was discontinued 24 hours after my procedure and I was put on Vicodin every four hours after that. I was quite itchy from the anesthesia for the first couple of days. I was also quite anxious to see what was underneath the top bandage that covered the entire abdomen. I was given stool softeners and gas pills the entire time as well. (maximum characters reached - continued on next post)
Best wishes and prayers for a benign outcome and a quick recovery! We'll look forward to hearing from you when you feel up to it!
Shelly
Shelly
Wow, MarieMichele! Thank you for taking the time to write that extensive response, complete with answers to my most pressing questions. To update you... I did meet with my doctor yesterday. I was wrong. It will be just one incision, almost like a C-section; down low by the pubic hairline and long enough to reach both ovaries. The doctor claims 2-2.5 inches, but I bet it will be more like 3-4. He is just trying to calm my anxiety because I am a highly anxious person. He said he's done thousands of these, and I believe him as he's easily gotta be in his 70's! But he is very confident and he makes me feel better about everything. I am going in at 9:30am tomorrow as they have you arrive 3 hours early, and my procedure was moved up to 12:30pm instead of 2:30. I will update you when I am back online, in a few days (or weeks) I'd imagine. Thanks again for the re-assurance and helpful advice ladies. Take care and we'll catch up soon!
~Candice
~Candice
Thank you both for your replies. I am actually having a laparotomy, which is more invasive than a laparoscopic procedure I will have scars up to 2 inches on each side. I appreciate all of the support and advice. I will see my doctor tomorrow for the Pr-Op appointment. I'll let you all know how it goes. Thanks again!
hi candice, i found your post interesting as my case i had a dermoid cyst the size of an orange but i was unaware i had it until it ruptured ,so at present i am waiting to see an endocrinologist in september and now it looks like they are pointing in the way to pcos i also got refferal to a dieticion who told me i have pcos but i wasent tested for it yet but when i had surgery the surgeon told me they had a good look and to make sure i get tested for it ,i am very concerned about this as i have only one ovary and 24yrs single with no family but thank god all was benign ,i have been suffering with peroids and weight fatigue womb trouble since i first got a peroid at the age of 11yrs so hopefully i will get answers now and to feel i am not a hypochondriac ,i really admire you for not accepting when the doc wasent lestening i wish i had been as strong ,i will keep you in my prayers for thursday its a worry waiting keep in touch x
Hi Candice,
I am so glad you got some answers and finally got a doctor listen. It sounds like you were in limbo for a long time before the figured out the problem. It is scary to be waiting for surgery. I am not the best person to tell you about a laproscopic procedure since I haven't had one. I hear that the scarring is minimal and that you do recover more quickly. :) I am sure someone on the forum will come along and give you the scoop on laparoscopy.
Since you have been diagnosed with PCOS, I think you are in a "safer" zone than most who would have your findings because PCOS is linked with large, benign cysts. Are your cysts complex? Have you taken any fertility drugs in the past? Women who have taken fertility drugs have a slightly greater risk of developing a low malignant potential tumor...sometimes called borderline ovarian cancer. These tumors generally have a good prognosis and don't usually recur after they have been removed, but for a small number of women, they do return and spread. If your cysts are complex and you have taken fertility drugs, then I would suggest you discuss this issue with your doctor and see if he recommends any further tests or a gyn/onc consult. In general, most cysts do turn out to be benign and odds are with you.
It sounds like you have a good doctor and that he is confident you have a benign condition. But, if you are having some concern, then there is no harm in discussing these issues with him.
You will do fine with the surgery though! :) For me, the worst part was the wait until surgery. Your mind goes through all of the "what if" scenarios. But, you will do great! Take a deep breath and try to relax until your surgery date. It helps to keep your mind busy. I watched many movies the week before my surgery! :) Please keep us posted on how you are doing! Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Shelly
I am so glad you got some answers and finally got a doctor listen. It sounds like you were in limbo for a long time before the figured out the problem. It is scary to be waiting for surgery. I am not the best person to tell you about a laproscopic procedure since I haven't had one. I hear that the scarring is minimal and that you do recover more quickly. :) I am sure someone on the forum will come along and give you the scoop on laparoscopy.
Since you have been diagnosed with PCOS, I think you are in a "safer" zone than most who would have your findings because PCOS is linked with large, benign cysts. Are your cysts complex? Have you taken any fertility drugs in the past? Women who have taken fertility drugs have a slightly greater risk of developing a low malignant potential tumor...sometimes called borderline ovarian cancer. These tumors generally have a good prognosis and don't usually recur after they have been removed, but for a small number of women, they do return and spread. If your cysts are complex and you have taken fertility drugs, then I would suggest you discuss this issue with your doctor and see if he recommends any further tests or a gyn/onc consult. In general, most cysts do turn out to be benign and odds are with you.
It sounds like you have a good doctor and that he is confident you have a benign condition. But, if you are having some concern, then there is no harm in discussing these issues with him.
You will do fine with the surgery though! :) For me, the worst part was the wait until surgery. Your mind goes through all of the "what if" scenarios. But, you will do great! Take a deep breath and try to relax until your surgery date. It helps to keep your mind busy. I watched many movies the week before my surgery! :) Please keep us posted on how you are doing! Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Shelly
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My laparotomy incision was vertical starting just below the belly button, downwards for about 4.5 inches. Two 2-inch incisions should heal faster than a larger single incision. Please share your experiences with us when you are back from the hospital and feel up to talking about it. This is a place where we share experiences so we can help others.
As for your other questions, here are my own experiences (and you can read my entire story in my profile):
- I could not return to work for 6 weeks, but even then did not feel ready for it; by around 8 to 10 weeks I felt better, and even better a few months beyond that. Could not think about driving a car on my own, and only for short errands, until about week 5. Your healing time could be shorter than this.
- Scarring is ugly at the beginning, red/purple in color, abs will be swollen and will bulge around by the scar making you look deformed. It all reduces over time and smooths out. Scars will fade considerably. It takes months, so it is important not to focus on how you look right after surgery and to remind yourself that your appearance will improve.
- approx. 2 months to resume your love life? Doctor will tell you based on your own situation.
- diagnosing based just on ultrasound is very common and not considered bad practice; ultrasound is both harmless to the patient and less costly than the other options.
- Initially your energy is going to be very low thanks to the surgery and anesthesia. It is easy to get lightheaded and fall, so walking must be done cautiously, but walking is essential since you are going to have to move out the post-op gas (gas pains are worse than incision pains) and be mobile enough to prevent dangerous blood clots. You will be napping a lot. As you heal, your energy should improve to levels better than you felt prior to surgery. Weight loss is extremely likely, first because you will be on a liquid diet the day before to about 2 days after surgery. When you return to solid foods, your appetite will not return full speed ahead for days or weeks and this is a great time to adjust eating habits. But if you sit around and eat junk, weight loss is much less likely. And you will be sitting idle a lot in the early healing days.
A lot of healthy-living women come down with this problem and I personally believe that environmental factors could be a cause. Additives in cosmetics/shampoos (such as parabens), hormones given to livestock that later end up on the dinner plate, pesticides, foods cooked in plastics, carbonated beverages in plastic bottles. There is an extensive list of items that could prove harmful to ovarian health.