Hysterectomy: did you keep your cervix?

**lddowler** · 05-12-2011 11:02 PM

I am scheduled to undergo a hysterectomy in two weeks. My question is for those of you out there who have already had one, did you keep your cervix? Why? Why Not? If you did not keep it, how do you feel about it? Do you notice a difference?

I'm not concerned about the hysterectomy, but I am losing sleep over trying to figure out the cervix end of things. I have been told that if they do the procedure vaginally, the recovery time is MUCH less AND there are no incisions. I have been told that the cervix serves no sexual function, but I'm pretty convinced that I would notice it missing.

any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Leslie

**caterpillar79** · 05-13-2011 09:13 AM

It depends what type of hysterectomy you are getting.

Total/complete hysterectomy - removing the body, fundus and cervix of the uterus

Partial/supra-cervical hysterectomy - removal of the uterine body but the cervix is left intact

Worry about surgical risks and it's long term effects (i.e. sterility, Hormone/estrogen level, your body' ability to synthesize calcium, etc).

My mom had complete hysterctomy and she is doing well.

**lddowler** · 05-13-2011 09:27 AM

I have the choice to have the procedure done vaginally (lose the cervix) or Laproscopically (keep the cervix). They're both looking pretty equal in the pro/con department. The ovaries will remain regardless of the procedure, the only question is the cervix.

**WildChild** · 05-13-2011 09:29 AM

Why are you having this procedure?

**caterpillar79** · 05-13-2011 09:30 AM

May I know the reason for the procedure?

**WildChild** · 05-13-2011 09:33 AM

LOL. Our minds run in the same track and concerns?

**lddowler** · 05-13-2011 09:33 AM

15 years of uncontrollable bleedling, anemia, and pain. I've had two kids, tried numerous treatments and therapies, and have had it with the bloody organ. It needs to go.

**WildChild** · 05-13-2011 09:34 AM

How old are you?

**lddowler** · 05-13-2011 10:05 AM

I am 29 and have been Married for 10 years. I have a stable, happy marriage, a nine year old daughter and a six year old son. Please don't assume that because of my age I will want more children or have regrets. Even if I lose my husband or children, I certainly would not opt to raise children again. I have been sterile for five years with no regrets. I'll hold out for grandkids or become a crazy cat lady.

I really am only interested in hearing from those who have had the procedure, and wanting to know how they made their decision (if it was theirs to make) and how they feel about their bodies now. I'm leaning towards keeping the cervix (if it ain't broke, don't fix it). It is a longer procedure with more incisions, but my gut tells me its the right move to make.