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What to expect???

I am 52, never went through menopause, and getting ready to go through a radical hysterectomy.  I have cerival cancer, caught early.  I have no idea what to expect or how to handle thrown in menopause.  Any suggestions how to prepare for this venture?
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Avatar universal
COMMUNITY LEADER
You might want to do research on natural hormones. Cherie, our CL here recommends Black Cohosh. There are also Bio Identical hormones. You will probably have to see a different Dr that prescribes them since your Dr is saying not to worry about HRT.
You can find Drs in your area that prescribe these. Look in your local phone book or do some research on your computer.
We really do understand your concern about your quality of life after the surgery.
If you want to know more about Bio Identical hormones, Cherie is the person to ask. She knows a lot about them. Take care. Remar
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Avatar universal
I'm trying to get info but my oncologist yesterday told me not to worry about HRT.  He said since I'm 52 I'm already into menopause.  Sure I'm 52 but I've been having my periods regular and heavy.  Nobody does a blood test to see how my levels are.  All they're concerned about is the cancer.  I'm more concerned about my quality of life afterwards.  I'm sure the cancer is catch early and that will be fine.  
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Avatar universal
COMMUNITY LEADER
To wannasmile63. Your so right about being informed. I felt the same as you did. I just wanted my pain to go away and did'nt think about hormones. Thank goodness my Dr started me on them a few days after my surgery.
We're all so different it's really hard to tell which women will do well without hormones and which will not. Listen to your body, that's the best thing you can do. Take care. Remar
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1046985 tn?1305117048
Remar and Cherie have given you great advice. I recently had a BSO due to extreme problematic ovarian cysts. In the time leading up to surgery I was in severe pain, and just couldn't wait for surgery so all my problems would be solved. I was so caught up in getting rid of the pain I never really thought much about menopause, I even predicted my ovaries probably weren't even producing hormones anymore, I am 46. How wrong I was. Today I am 8 weeks post-op, and only this week started on HRT due to a severe surgically induced menopause, which has had me having continual flashes, and the worst part is I became suicidal. I am now being seen by my GP and mental health every 3-4 days and have just been given another month off work to build myself back up. PLEASE go into this surgery fully informed, and with your options very open. Don't forget, surgical menopause is nothing like a normal menopause for some people. It can be very brutal, but hopefully you will be one of the lucky ones that just breezes through. Good luck, and let us know how you go.
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599170 tn?1300973893
please forget last paragraph meant for another poster.
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599170 tn?1300973893
You may or may not change mind on no hormones
here is the big contraversy....cardiologists say HRT is bad for heart..Bone specialist say women need estrogen to keep bones strong.

I choose the vivelle estrogen patch used for 1 year then took it off and my symptoms where gone cept for the once a week or so hot flash..I used to have really bad night sweats and many hot flashes..my only symptoms the night sweats were so bad my clothing would be soaking wet I had to get up about two times per night to change night clothes

hows the incison? any bleeding or drainage  clear is no big concer do tell dr , white thick or green or yellow call dr immediatley or if also bleeding or feverish go straight to emergency room/

Cherie
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Avatar universal
Thanks, I' m lucky my husband is able to be home during this time.  So I'm not worried about the meals and house cleaning.  I've loaded up on movies and magazines.  
I am concerned about the hormones.  You hear all the horror stories and it's scary.  I've decided to go no hormones.  I may change my mind if it gets to rough.  My mom or sister never had hot flashes.  My periods have always been on time never light.  So it'll be a blessing to get rid of them.  I meet with the oncologist today so I've got questions for him.
Just dreading the waiting.
Helpful - 0
599170 tn?1300973893
Hi my friend Remar gave excellent advkce on how to handle the hysterectomy.

I just have a comment or two about menopause some women in early fifties are in premenopause not perimenopause( starts in early 40s) but I have read on the subject and most women early 50s are in menopause..you may be one of the lucky ones my mom was no symptoms one day her period just did not come when it should of and never came back. A very simple blood test will check where you hormones are at to answer this for you.

Most have hormonal issues..there are a few options..Herbal ( read on black Kosch)
must speak with your Dr, ask about Bio-identical..its the best route In my honest opinion Id stay away from Premarine..its not bio identical its actually made from the urine of a horse..bio is as close as possible to womans own hormones.

Good luck

Cherie
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
COMMUNITY LEADER
First of all I want to say I'm so happy to hear the cancer was caught early.
It's hard to how you'll feel after surgery because we're all different. There will be pain because it is surgery, but not to worry, they will be giving you pain meds in the hospital and you'll also be sent home with meds for pain.
You must listen to your Dr and rest for 6 weeks. No lifting, taking stairs, exercising or sex. You body needs several weeks to heal.
You may want to talk to your Dr now about hormone options after you have the surgery.
Lean on your family and friends to help you with cleaning, shopping and cooking. I always tell women that are getting ready to have this surgery to prepare meals in advance that can be frozen and popped in the microwave. Have a family member or friend get you some magazines and movies when you get home so you won't be bored during your recovery.
If you have any more questions we're here to help. Take care. Remar
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