hysterectomy

I've had a j-pouch for 20 years now, and had a full hysterectomy just this past August. It was due to ovarian cancer, which I was diagnosed with in April. So I'm also going through chemotherapy. But the hysterectomy was a breeze. Recovery was easy, and they didn't go anywhere near my j-pouch. My colo-rectal surgeon was on call just in case. And she wasn't needed. I was terrified that I would lose my pouch, but all is fine. It was even done robotically, and everything was removed through my vagina

Let me know if you have any questions. I know it can be scary to think of a surgery that can jeopardize your pouch. 

C-jay

I had an open hysterectomy a few years ago and it was a simple recovery for me!  My surgeon went through the scar from my proctoclectomy and it healed easily.  My J-pouch was no worse for wear!  Best wishes!

I'm in the same boat as you so do let me know how things work out. My gyno has been trying everything possible to avoid surgery for endometriosis but it seems now this is the only option. He made it sound very risky and that a bowel surgeon would be needed in the room too,  so I'm glad to hear these positive stories.  Please update here how it goes for you!

Duck, unfortunately a hysterectomy for endometriosis is very different from a simple hysterectomy. While anyone with prior pelvic surgery will have potential issues with adhesions to other pelvic organs, endometriosis ups the ante many times. This is because you not only have the adhesions from prior surgery, you have the arduous task of removing endometrial lining that has entered the pelvic and abdominal cavity, and adhering to your intestines, bladder, abdominal walls, etc.. This tissue bleeds every month, causing pain and possibly more adhesions. Even after menopause or with hormonal control, the adhesions and endometrial tissue can still be causing pain.

But, some risks are worth taking. You have to be able to live your life.

I'm glad your GYN will be having a GI surgeon on hand! Best of luck to you!

Jan