Uterine Fibroids :: Weight Loss After Uterine Artery Embolization
OK, not weight loss exactly, but a reduction in size!
I'm down to have uterine artery embolization this year, but I look at various forums and women have said they've noticed 'a slight reduction'.
I had wished to go back to my usual dress size - naturally this is not a priority for the NHS, which I fully understand, but what is the best procedure to have the 'bulge' completely disappear?
Asked the hospital, but they were quite rude about it all. Is there anyone who's had this procedure done? Did it completely go?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization After Myomectomy
A little background first, I was originally diagnosed with fibroids around 8 years ago(age 30). I expected it as every woman in my family has had a hysterectomy. My only symptom was a slightly heavier period and the final straw was the last 2 periods that lasted around 2 weeks each. I had so many small ones that my gyno couldn't tell me how many there were so I opted for a myomectomy. Procedure went great - incision at the bikini line. Everything was fine until 4 years ago, my new gyno told me that they were growing again. I knew that this was a possibility but as I wasn't having any symptoms, I chose to leave them be. A year ago, they experienced a serious growth spirt and I began having issues extremely heavy bleeding, long periods, severe iron deficiency, tiredness, and last but not least the protruding stomach. Of course, she wanted me to have a hysterectomy and again I said no. I have/had 3 large ones an a ton of small ones. My stomach was so big that she said that I would have to be completely cut open from above the belly button down to my original incision and I believe that I looked to be 4-5 months pregnant. I couldn't stomach that so I tried a few home remedies. Black strap molasses - couldn't stomach the stuff. Castor oil packs and ACV - I didn't stick with that long enough to notice any benefit. Essaic tea and progesterone cream did help slow down the heavy cycles and made cycle-time bearable again. I tried serrapeptase enzyme for a short time but not long enough to see any benefit or even to feel as if it was helping. No I don't want any more children but I still refuse to have a hysterectomy.
In January 2016, I had an UFE. I guess that it was successful as I really haven't had a heavy cycle yet but I have a couple of questions that my male doctors can't really answer.
My stomach has gone down slightly but not enough to be noticeable. I actually measured before and after the procedure to check for any results. I know that it's vanity but I miss my flat stomach. I know that this procedure does not shrink them 100% but is there anyone 4-6 months or so out, that can provide any type of information about the long term results? Also, the leg where they "plugged up" my artery, every now and then, it still feels "weird". Is that normal?
Would trying natural remedies now actually help? I started taking serrapeptase again recently and I do workout regularly(cardio & strength training). I try to drink plenty of filtered water. My diet consists of a mix of 75% organic/mostly natural foods with the rest being the "bad" stuff. I do drink coffee and alcohol on a regular basis. I'm trying to limit dairy and am struggling for my morning latte. I do eat a bit of cheese but other than that, I'm not a big dairy fan.
I'm just looking for ways to continue to get these things out of my life without settling for a hysterectomy.
Anyone have any ideas or have you tried anything that seems helpful?
My Uterine Fibroid Embolization Experience - Better Than Hysterectomy
Just thought I would post an update I'm 4 weeks post op. For the 1st 3 weeks I was bleeding on and off now it seems to have stopped. So hopefully next period will be normal. My stomach is so much better as well I no longer feel bloated it's also getting flatter not much but definitely there. Still have low energy but hopeful that will go as time goes on. My leg aches a bit when I walk my dog but it's gradually getting easier. Overall though really happy and I would recommend this procedure to anyone. Much better than a Hysterectomy
View 5 RepliesUterine Fibroid Embolization Is Better Than Hysterectomy - My Experience
I'm now 11 weeks post op. I have got my energy back so something is going right. Periods are heavy but not flooding last one was 18th March so I'm hoping the next one is gonna be at least 2 weeks off. Had a twinge of pain this morning but it went. There is definitely shrinkage on my tummy area but it gets bloated back to size when I am due a period. It's a lot better though as before the op I could not eat properly if I did my stomach would really hurt for ages after and bloat so much that I felt like I would burst. I would definitely recommend this op to anyone as its better than having a total hysterectomy where they take out the womb cervix and ovaries.
View 3 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: 30% Reduction After Embolization
I'm 6 weeks post up and I just had a follow up MRI and the doctor said my fibroids have shrunk 30%!!! My uterus was 24cm before the procedure (2440 cc) and now it's at 17cm (1690 cc) and it will likely continue to shrink for another few months. Even though it's still pretty big and I still have a lot of my symptoms, I'm also so happy than I can cry. This is the first treatment ever that seems to be working for me. In the past 5 years I've tried everything from a myomectomy and fibristal (ulipristal acetate) to various diets and natural remedies, and nothing worked. I feel so grateful right now even though I know that this could be temporary. I highly recommend that you look into it if you haven't yet!
I also have to add that this site has the most wonderful and supportive members. I had a rough recovery and couldn't do it without you. Please continue to post updates!!
Uterine Fibroids :: My Myomectomy Experience
So I had my myomectomy last weds evening. I was nervous as hell and cried in whilst the anesthetist was tending to me. They gave me an epidural to make me more comfortable and which meant I would need less 'hard' drugs after surgery lol as they didn't want me to take too much morphine Etc.
When I came round they told me my consultant had removed 13 fibroids. I had 14 so I was immediately in my drunken state questioning them as to what she had done with number 14 turns out she left maybe 1-1.5 behind as they were small and she didn't want to risk damaging my uterus.
The next day I felt surprisingly good and wasn't really in any discomfort. I found out this was cos of the epi. I was itching though which is a side effect.
I had some off days generally with trapped wind and a feeling that my tummy was very very tight and being pulled in all directions which wasn't pleasant but it's now day seven after surgery and I'm managing to control the pain with just paracetamol. I refused ibuprofen two days ago as they were giving me gastric pain.
I can't get comfortable that much in bed as my back hurts quite a bit which might be a side effect of the epidural not sure but all in all I'm not too bad. My consultant has been amazing. She was coming to see me most nights in hospital even around 10pm to check on me. She is pleased with all and how it looks and I'm finally back home since last night and am to go back to her in 5 weeks. They told me its a very slowly healing process and I had a BIG op but slowly slowly I'll get there
Uterine Fibroids :: Hysteroscopic Myomectomy?
Has anyone had a Hysteroscopic Myomectomy? And what were the results. I have a fibroid that's 4.5cm within my uterus. My problem is I am constantly bleeding and the gyno surgeon suggested myomectomy. He said laparoscopic surgery may not be successful and open abdominal would be the likely option. I did some research and discovered this other non invasive option as I want to have kids so I really only have myomectomy option. The surgeon never suggested Hysteroscopic Myomectomy as another option.....
View 1 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: Open Myomectomy
I just had surgery done on Fri April first. 4 days ago. Today (will be) Tuesday. What was supposed to be a quick, easy surgery requiring the 3 small holes in the uterus to take out fibroids w possibly an inch incision if they couldnt take it out, they opened up "a can of worms" and had to cut a 6 inch incision horizontal "c-section" at the bikini line to get fibroids and endometriosis taken out while manipulating the bladder and filling the stomach up w gas so they can see everything. Recuperation was originally supposed to be 2 weeks but has been changed to 6 weeks w post follow up in 3 weeks. Can anyone tell me if they have had a similar "procedure" done, what I can expect in the next "6 weeks" and how going back to work will be like. My part time day job-25 hrs a week is an easy non stressful behind the desk answering calls and at the computer. My 40 hr week FT is more physical, working in a laboratory, living heavy items up to 50lbs, LOTS of standing in one place, and if there is sitting, its a stool. Please help me out. I'm 33, 5'5, 123 lbs. I'm not a big girl, but not too skinny either, toned.
View 5 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: Abdominal Myomectomy At 40
I have had heavy bleeding non-stop for days. My hemoglobin levels are at 10.5 which normal levels would be 12. I turned 40 this year and want to have kids asap. My surgeon said that my fibroid is not so huge 4.5cm and I only have one but its so far back in my uterus that laparoscopy may not be successful and that he will probably make an open abdominal myomectomy. He also said the fibroid would not have prevented pregnancy but it has to be removed to stop my uterus from bleeding. My surgery is in a few days and I'm dreading it.
1. The Dr. said because of my age and heavy bleeding I have slim chances of getting pregnant after myoectomy but he will do his best to avoid damage to my uterus.
2. I have no idea how they can do the surgery with all my heavy bleeding still going on.
3. I have no idea what to expect with open abdominal myomectomy surgery except after reading blogs that the pain is huge.
4. I'm already panicking and the stress factor has hit the roof with me today. I am still heavily bleeding with huge cramps and really bad headaches.
5. I keep thinking to look for another surgeon but this Dr. is the chief surgeon in the gynecological unit of the hospital and I really dont have much choice here as the bleeding has got to stop asap.
Uterine Fibroids :: PMS Symptoms After A Myomectomy?
I am 4 weeks post op laparoscopic myomectomy and just started having PMS symptoms 2 days ago (breast tenderness). I've also noticed my belly is bigger/harder and I have more abdominal discomfort. Not completely sure if it's PMS related. I should be getting my period in approx 9 days.
Does anyone have any stories they can share, with PMS symptoms after a myomectomy? Were your symptoms the same prior to surgery? What was different?
Uterine Fibroids Embolization - Reviews, Experiences, Feedback?
I'm a 30-year old woman with three medium-large uterine fibroids. At the time of my last ultrasound (July 2013), my uterus was at the size of about 14 weeks. I have another ultrasound coming up at the end of this month but, given how much I can now see/feel my fibroids when lying on my back, I suspect that they've grown.
I'm weighing my different treatment options, and I'm currently leaning toward uterine artery embolization. Has anyone out there undergone this treatment? What was your experience with it?
Uterine Fibroids :: Myomectomy - Any Reviews / Feedback?
I have (5-6) small multi cervical fibroids and one approx 7cm pedunculated, in consultation with a very supportive medical practitioner I have decided to have, well it is my only option now because of the size of one the pedunculated one, a myomectomy. I feel ok about the decision as my periods are getting increasingly heavier and I know have constant lower back pain, which may be related to the fibroids. I need to have 4 injections every 4 weeks to try and shrink the fibroids to a more manageable size, however, this will bring on menopausal type symptoms. I have been given a prescription for Livial, which I am loathe to take. Has anyone had this procedure recently or within the past few years? I am concerned and a bit worried, to say the least, about having the procedure as most of the testimonials I have read appear to be generally dissatisfied, as the side effects were severe.
View 6 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: Myomectomy Pain After 10 Weeks
I had a myomectomy and signed off work for 10 weeks. I'm now fully back to work but still experiencing some pains in my tummy. I know that one fibroid was left behind (I had 14, largest measuring 10cms) because it was small and in an awkward place and just wondering if anyone in a similar situation still gets pains? My pains are generally in the ovary area, each side taking it in turns to hurt. Last couple of days it's been my left ovary area and now Im making frequent trips to bathroom to pass not that much urine and also have strong back pain just above lower back
Feel like almost my fibroids could have come back with these pains i'm having. Can they come back so soon? Or perhaps it's just my insides are still sore and healing. Is it normal to feel all this after this length of time?
Uterine Fibroids :: Myomectomy Experience After A Year
On the 18th August it will have been a year since my myomectomy..
In the last year I've gained all the weight I lost in my 5 months of being unable to eat solid food.
I have a couple of questions. Firstly I am still very sensitive above my scar, is that normal?
Secondly, I still get a lot of swelling above the scar even a year on. I know that's to be expected but it quite uncomfortable.
Thirdly obviously where I had lost the weight, that has left my scar very tight where I lost so much much and regained it.
Finally my periods are very heavy again and I frequently get bad back ache (even without PMT). Should I still be getting back ache? ( I was going to have physio but moved house so it's not within the boundary).
Lastly on a different but related note. In May I was 3 months pregnant obviously mentioned my op just in case. Announced to the family etc and that evening began having a miscarriage. After a long time in A&E, a loads of scans telling me I most likely had a fibroid again I was left in a canteen and given 2 paracetamol and lost my baby there. The pain was pretty horrendous and I spent 10 hours in hospital, A&E were good, being moved to gynecology was horrific. Will the NHS ever apologies or have any empathy at all for either scenarios? Just because I am not screaming does not mean I'm not in pain the positive is I have my life back, changed my career and began to get myself fitter. I have made some life changing decisions.
Uterine Fibroids :: Open Myomectomy - Recovery?
I am just over 4 weeks post open myomectomy and was wondering how others have recovered. The scar is still swollen and sore which I expected however at times I get what I can only describe as sharp "stabbing" pains. These seem to be more from inside my body rather than from the scar. Is this normal? I'm not due to see my GP for another week so just wanted to check with others who may have gone through the procedure.
View 56 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: 5 Weeks Out After Open Myomectomy
It is 5 weeks since I had a bikini line open myomectomy. Had 1 orange sized fibroid in all layers of my uterus. My doctor said the location was making my bleeding particularly heavy. I had tried to avoid surgery for the 6 years that I experienced symptoms. I just couldn't keep from being very anemic. I ended up needing a blood transfusion as my hemoglobin was at 6. A few days after the transfusion I had the surgery. It was all done quickly to prevent another period as they where getting increasingly heavy. I am happy to report that my period was only 5 days and no cramps! My anemia is going away quickly! My scar is still swollen and gets worse the more tired I get (which is surprisingly quickly). My sleep is still off and there is a little pain. But it seems normal considering it is a major surgery.
View 4 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: Myomectomy Panic - Any Advice?
I am scheduled to have an abdominal myomectomy tomorrow morning and I am extremely nervous. I am 27, no kids and this would be my 1st surgical procedure. I am second guessing going thru with it but the pain I am experiencing is unbearable. I have two fibroid’s (one the size of an grapefruit and the other a size of an orange). My OBGYN advised against the surgery because of the position and it being too complicated. Now he wants to removed them because my condition isn’t getting any better. Does anyone have any advice?? If I continue with my panic attacks, I know for sure things will go sour!
View 7 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: 6 Month Post Myomectomy
I've been on this forum quite a bit now. Very long story. The main gist is I am now 6 months post myomectomy. Initially recovering well. My periods seemed back to normal and all ok. Initially lasting for between 3 and 5 days. As time has gone on they have got worse. Last month I had 2 weeks of terrible back pain before a period that lasted 14 days. I am still ridiculously emotional and it has actually hit me, how serious everything got before my op with my weight plummeting to below 5 and half stone. Occasionally something will trigger a flashback and set me off completely, reminding me of the pain I had for so long and the unnecessary treatment. I am feeling quite low at the moment. Is anyone else having a similar experience? I am hoping it is all the hormones settling down. It is having a huge impact on my life, I am a total roller coaster!
View 8 RepliesUterine Fibroids :: Laparotomy Myomectomy Experience
I had an operation on 21 Nov 2015, this is to share my experience on those people who are nervous as I did before the surgery
View 7 Replies