Asking Questions
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If your doctor has diagnosed you with fibroid
tumors, your mind is probably overflowing with questions and concerns. That
is as it should be. It is only by gathering the facts and becoming informed
that you will be able to find information about and, if necessary, demand
the treatment that is in your best interest.
Your physician will need to know information about you, and you will
want to understand the recommended treatments.
Know Yourself
Start with knowledge about your own body. You have lived with it for
a long time and you are quite familiar with it; but do you know the names
of your reproductive organs, the different hormones involved, and the
respective functions of all the parts of your system? If not, consider
a refresher course. For example, look at WebMD's Pelvic
Players. Its information can help you ask the right questions and
understand your doctor's explanations.
Keep a History
Your time and the doctor's time are important. If you are consulting
a new physician for a second opinion, be sure to organize your thoughts
and come prepared to discuss any prescriptions you are taking, symptom
history, and any prior treatments.
Jotting down dates and events in your medical history ahead of time can
help your doctor evaluate your symptoms, and subsequent conversations
can help to remind you about questions you may have.
Meeting With Your Physician
If you are at all concerned that you might be uncomfortable discussing
options with a doctor, bring your spouse or a trusted friend with you
to help take notes. Dealing with illness is stressful, and under stress,
we often do not remember what is being said to us very well.
There is no such thing as a dumb question. Your doctor should explain
all facets of treatment, but if that does not occur you should keep in
mind, the following questions. Your doctor is there to answer your questions.
General Questions
- What are the known complications or side effects?
- How often has your doctor performed this procedure?
- What are my risks if I do nothing about the fibroids?
- Will the fibroids come back?
- Will I be able to have children?
- Is this the most conservative option possible?
- How will my sexual, drive and, function be affected?
Questions About Hysterectomy
- Do I need to have my ovaries removed?
- How will you do the operation (vaginally, laparoscopically, abdominally)?
- Why should I keep my cervix?
- Is it okay for me to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after
surgery?
- What help is available to mitigate the effects of menopause after
surgery?
Questions About Hormone Therapy
- What are the risks of hormone therapy?
- I've heard of others being sterile after treatment. Will that happen
to me?
Questions About Myomectomy
- What are the chances that fibroids will grow back?
- Are my bladder and intestinal organs involved in the surgery in any
way?
- Will I be able to have children?
Questions About Your Doctor
- What are the surgeon's hospital affiliations
- Is your doctor experienced in the procedure or treatment you need?
- How many procedures has the doctor performed?
- What are the hospital's and surgeon's complication rates?
- Does he have a good reputation?
- How did you hear about him?
- Where did he go to medical school?
- Does he go back for more medical education and training on a regular
basis?
- Does he keep up to date on the latest treatments and technologies
or do things the way he always has?
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