By Yumna Bodiat
Edited by Imaan Moosa
Amina Jhetam tells us about her experience with polycystic ovarian syndrome and the process involved in undergoing a hysterectomy.
We spoke with 47-year-old Amina Jhetam on her experience with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and undergoing a hysterectomy.
From the age of 28 to 44, Amina struggled with symptoms of PCOS which later led to a hysterectomy. A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure of a partial, total, or radical removal of a woman's uterus.
Amina tells us about what she endured suffering from PCOS and the surgical and recovery process of a hysterectomy.
Have you suffered from reproductive health problems throughout adolescence and adulthood?
I hadn't experienced any reproductive problems and actually conceived my first child while on the pill. At the age of 28 after giving birth to my second and last child, I began experiencing symptoms of cramping and heavy blood flow. Both my childbirths were normal and under a regular epidural.
When did you begin experiencing symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome and what were your symptoms that led you to consult a gynecologist?
Around the age of 30. Initially, I found ways to manage the symptoms without interventions and self-medicated with various anti-inflammatories. However, eventually, at the age of 44, the bleeding got much heavier with clotting and the pain was unbearable. Finally, I decided to seek medical help and consult a gynecologist.
Photo: Adia
What were the treatment options made available to you and why did you choose to have a hysterectomy?
At that stage, there were only two options made available to me. It was either to remove the 6cm fibroid or to have a hysterectomy. I opted for the removal of the fibroid, however, I was warned by my gynecologist that it may inevitably lead to a hysterectomy. I chose to have the procedure four months later when it was more suitable for my work schedule but also based on wishful thinking that the fibroid would shrink.
Three days after seeing my gynecologist I had my next cycle. That night the pain was excruciating and felt like labor pains. The next morning I called the doctor's room and was advised to come into the emergency room. I was admitted immediately and given pethidine while I waited for my gynecologist who examined me an hour later. He explained to me that the fibroid was about to rupture and he would have to proceed with the hysterectomy immediately.
What was the experience like for you?
I was anxious as I was not mentally prepared for this. I was told to ask the gynecologist to do a vaginal hysterectomy by a family member as the healing is faster. As I was wheeled into theatre I asked and his reply was due to the size of the fibroid it was not possible.
The process was scary; I had done no research on the post-operation process and was very stressed due to not having my business affairs in order. Since the surgery, I have become more health-conscious and I pay more attention to my body and wellbeing.
Photo: MedicalExpo
Do you have any advice for women who may be suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome?
I would advise you to visit your gynecologist regularly and assist with symptoms through medication and better eating habits.
Glossary:
Uterus: The uterus is a reproductive muscular organ found between the bladder and rectum whose purpose seeks to nourish a fertilized egg and is home to a fetus until the baby is born.
Fibroids: Abnormal growths that develop in or on a woman's uterus.
Pethidine: Injection is used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain, including pain associated with childbirth or during an anesthetic or following an operation.
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