Hystera [Ask Dr. Miro: What You Didn’t Learn In Health Class]

Dear Dr. Miro,

My doctor told me I should get a hysterectomy as a preventative measure because the meds I took to fight breast cancer may cause uterine issues. She claims that since I’m 41 years old and don’t plan on having any children that this is what I should do and that it won’t effect me in any way. This doesn’t sound right but it’s what my insurance company agrees with. Won’t this screw with my orgasms somehow? I’m totally freaked out because everyone’s telling me something that doesn’t feel right. I don’t want to say good-bye to my uterus but I certainly don’t want to create more medical problems.

Sincerely,

Scared and Mistrustful

Dear S&M,

Of course you are freaked out. One of your defining organs, as a female, is in jeopardy. Removal of an organ is a last resort – NOT a “preventative measure.” This seems like a lazy and careless manner of treatment. Not only does your experience sound incredibly dismissed but also, it truly feels like an inhumane quick fix.

Keep in mind, there are many instances in which removal of one’s uterus is a necessary procedure and has created a better quality of life, but it does not sound like you are in one of those situations. There is much research clearly showing how hysterectomies negatively impact women. Quite a few women have uterine orgasms, so that would be the end of that. Also, from studies conducted over the past half century, it has been found that hysterectomies can result in diminished sex drive, insomnia, short term memory loss, decrease in stamina, increased irritability and anxiety, just to name a few. I highly recommend you check out Hers Foundation http://www.hersfoundation.com/ for specific percentages and more data.

You are right in trusting your intuition. Remember, insurance companies are looking for the cheapest way to resolve medical bills and if you have a OB/Gyn who is playing along in that game, get a new one. I highly recommend searching for a doctor who honors your feelings as well as your body. They are out there. When a medical professional tells you to do something that feels wrong keep (re)searching until you have enough facts to feel assured. What is right for one body is not the solution for all bodies. Please do not let anyone take any part of your being away from you unless you feel at peace with the removal.

Lust & Happiness,

Dr. Miro

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featured image credit: jemsweb