Well, I'm turning 40 in March and think it's time for me to finally undergo a hysterectomy due to large fibroid tumors.

I had them removed in December, 1996 with a myomectomy, but they are back with a vengence. I had a D&C this June, and it provided temporary relief to daily bleeding for awhile.

Lately, the bleeding has been non-stop. I'm not experiencing pain, just bleeding and pressure. I have to go to the bathroom at least twice every night because they put pressure on my bladder. I've also been anemic for over a year because of the constant bleeding.

I've been putting this surgery off for a couple of reasons. First, I never had children and always wanted to, so emotionally, I was not ready for this. Second, I am curious about the changes that will take place in my body.

I've come to terms with not having children. My fiance has an 11-year old daughter and doesn't want any more children. I respect his feelings, and have realized that at this point in my life, I'm no longer interested in starting a family -- heck, I'd be 58 when my child graduated from high school! I know it's not old and many people choose to have families later in life, but I know in my heart that late parenthood is not for me.

So, now that I've decided to schedule the surgery, I'm wondering what I can expect? I've talked to my doctor, but I want to talk to "real people" who have undergone this procedure to see how you really felt afterwards -- mentally and physically. My doctor will leave my ovaries in tact and simply remove my uterus.

Will I gain weight? Will my body shape change? How long and difficult is the recovery? When can I exercise again and lead a normal life. Is there swelling afterwards, and if so, for how long?

Again, I'll ask my doctor these questions at my pre-op appointment. I just want to hear experiences of real women out there.

Thanks for your help!

I cant answer some of your questions but, I know I am still putting my surgery off now too. I have already had to go in two times for transfusions. I hate the thought of surgery. I know its time to go and I guess I will here soon. I wish you well and hopefully yours will be all past you soon. I am 25 and they want to do the hysterectomy on me to. I don't want kids tho. Well, take care. Sam

there is no reason why you'd gain weight after hysterectomy, especially if the ovaries are left in (even if they are removed, it's really a myth that it leads to weight gain.) Likewise, there would be no change in shape to your body. Of course surgery is always a serious decision and never 100% free of risk; but for planned (as opposed to emergency) surgery, especially surgery as common and routine as hysterectomy, the chance of a problem is incredibly small. In your case, it sounds like you'll likely feel lots better!!

I had a hyster at age 28. There was a tumor which was completely encapsulated (PTL!) and my doctor assured me that he was 100% certain he got 100% of it, and that I need not ever have a pap test again. Of course, I do. He left my ovaries, but over time they stopped working and shriveled up into little leathery bits. I figure I've been in menopause for at least 30 years. Once my ovaries were dysfunctional, I went on estrogen therapy. Now I wouldn't be without it.

As far as the surgery goes, I was supposed to stay off my feet for several weeks, but after one week I was up and off on a trip to Montana.

Catty (don't worry, everything will be ok!)