Friday, September 28, 2007

Do you need a hysterecomy?

So many women are getting unnecessary hysterectomies; I thought I'd write an article for either Suite101.com or LesTout.com. But I changed my mind; the subject is too big to explain well in a brief article.

If you or a loved one is thinking about a hysterectomy, I've found two books that you should read Dr. Stanley West's book, The Hysterectomy Hoax. and The Complete Guide to Hysterectomy and Beyond, by The Hysterectomy Association. These are not just books telling horror stories of medical malpractice, although they have some of that; they discuss all the options in terms that a non-medical person can understand. They'll help you make the best decision.

According to Dr. West, 90% of all hysterectomies are unnecessary. But that means that 10% of them are. How do you tell the difference?

I've just explored that question over many months with one of my family members who suffered for ten years with excessive bleeding and pain. Finally the bleeding was so bad that she needed a blood transfusion. Her life was actually in danger at that point and it seemed there was no time left to explore more natural options. So she opted for a complete hysterectomy.

If you're facing this decision, learn the pros and cons of hysterectomies, and get a second opinion. Understand the physical, emotional, and sexual consequences of every option.

Don't just take your doctor's word for it.

Take a deep breath,

Dr. Ron