Health Questions

Fibroids

Question: I have experienced heavy periods, cramping and lower back problems for quite some time now. I went to my physician to ask what could be the cause and she told me that I had a 3cm fibroid on my uterus.  She recommends a hysterectomy, but I am unsure if that is the best possible course of treatment for me. Could you explain what fibroids are and let me know if there are alternative options available for treating them?

Menopause Hormone Therapy

Question: I am a healthy 46 year old woman. When I went for my latest annual check-up, my doctor advised me to begin taking hormone supplements as a precautionary measure for menopause. What are the possible side effects of taking these hormone supplements? Do they even work?

Hysterectomy

Question: My doctor recently told me that I need a hysterectomy. I have heard in the news lately that women are undergoing hysterectomy surgery when it is not medically necessary for them to do so. I was wondering if you could tell me why doctors would recommend this surgery if it is unnecessary? And also how I can know if a hysterectomy is the right treatment option for me?

T-Scores & Bone Density

Dear NWHN,

What is the average t score?  What should it be.  I am 63.

Dear Friend,

Dear Irene, Thank you for contacting the National Women's Health Network with your inquiry about t-scores. As an organization dedicated to helping women make informed decisions about their health, we are pleased that you are advocating for yours. We are happy to provide you with health information but are not licensed medical professionals and thus unable to provide medical advice or diagnosis.