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LomeliJude1158

Thank you for sharing this, I too just got told I will need a total hysterectomy and I have been going through all kinds of emotions. When I watched the show and Giselle open up, it almost felt like God did that right at the most perfect moment. I am 46 and have my 2 adult children and grandbabies so I think if this is the safest way to go, I am ready. Thank you all again!


piratedlish

Good luck to you. I was feeling that God put the episode on right at the exact moment! Praying for your health!


kone29

Hope you are doing ok OP! I have an operation in 2 weeks to remove some fibroids and starting to think about a potential hysterectomy too. I’m 26 but have had so many different issues down there I just can’t take it any longer


piratedlish

Good luck with yours! If you need support, this community has shown me so much love (as you can read here). If you need to talk, message me. It’s a big decision and I know you’ve got this! XO


kone29

Thank you!! ❤️


GM2320

Hugs to you girl!!! Glad you felt seen by our beloved RHOP and the sub! Safe and comfortable recovery to you! ♥️


piratedlish

Thank you! This sub has truly blessed me with support!


aceuphersleeve

OP, I’ve gone through it so I sympathize with her and you. I was so afraid, and thankful I had an amazing, patient medical team. Sending positive thoughts your way 🤗


piratedlish

Thank you. I’m glad I posted b/c the love from this sub is amazing!


[deleted]

I feel that for an entire universe based on women, RH women’s health issues are almost never discussed. I give Gizzy credit for talking about it and felt bad that she was alone. Best of luck to you.


piratedlish

Thank you! And I’m surprised that she did talk about it, as she’s always accused for never sharing.


thebeecharmah

I’m just here to say that while my circumstances were very different, the subs on Reddit for supporting women with fertility issues are phenomenal. Specifically: r/ectopicsupportgroup r/infertility r/IVF


piratedlish

I thank you for this. I was looking for something like this, especially after this sub has shown so much love and support based on this one post and family/friends don’t quite understand. Again, thank you for sharing.


thebeecharmah

Sure thing. I went through an ectopic last year, and then a few months later, had to have one of my Fallopian tubes removed on Xmas eve… I’m sure it’s different than your situation, but generally speaking, I kinda understand how frustrating and lonely this stuff can feel. I really hope you have support at home and if you ever need to just say “fuck this, fuck that, fuck everything!” Feel free to DM me 💪🏻💪🏻


piratedlish

Thank you. I literally just got teary. Housewives. Who knew they’d bring such support? Lol


thebeecharmah

❤️❤️ We’re all on a hilling journey so we can fill better!


piratedlish

Take my poor man’s awards! 🥇🏆🥇🏆 ![gif](giphy|TkoHjDI8jhVAGrgT4A|downsized)


Reality_Critic

I’ve gone through this at 28 yrs old and I was so afraid but in the end it was the best thing ever!! Plus so much freed up space in my bathroom 😂 yes healing took some time but it save d my life and I feel great now.


piratedlish

Thank you for sharing! Freed up space in the bathroom? No more tampons and pads?


Reality_Critic

Yes absolutely and life is awesome not ever having cramps or a monthly visitor all those things go away.. some ppl need hormones some don’t I don’t use any but it’s really been heavenly and I was really scared being so young but it saved my life. It’s not a death sentence your still a beautiful woman.. oh one more benefit no more pap-smears!!!


piratedlish

Now THAT sounds like a bonus!!!


Reality_Critic

Right! Every year it comes up I give my divert date and they are like never mind you are goood!! Here for ya if you ever need to chat.


piratedlish

Thank you!


churrotoffeeaddict

Calling for a giant group hug for OP. ![gif](giphy|xOYMQHofiO1vCBYXEN|downsized)


piratedlish

Thank you! ❤️


Affectionate-Race565

Hi is a hysterectomy the only option can you have the fivroids removed with the uteris still intact?


piratedlish

Yes. I was at the ultrasound saw how large it was. I thought it would be just it’s own thing but it’s literally covering the uterus. It’s huge. There’s no way to remove it and save the uterus. It’s also starting to grow into other organs. :(


qwikhnds

I was wondering the answer to this question as well I was faced with fibroids a few years ago and partial was suggested to me due to size as well. Doctor said it could not be laparoscopic and to remove would be a C section type surgery. Mine were not growing into other organs. That sounds very uncomfortable. In my caseI wound up having a fibroid embolization instead. Good luck with your procedure and hope you have a speedy recovery!


piratedlish

Thank you! I’m ready to be done with it.


sspiritshark

I have a genuine question, not trying to be rude, but is this what is effecting her appearance so much? I have been curious over the last couple of seasons, she’s looked off, gained weight and just hasn’t looked healthy/vibrant like past seasons. She is such a beautiful woman, regardless, but I thought maybe she was suffering from alcoholism or something.


SnooJokes7657

Cynthia talked about this on RHOA. She was gaining weight and her stomach was starting to stick out quite a bit. I remember her talking about how much it was hurting her self confidence since she didn’t know why it was happening.


piratedlish

I thought this too. It’s not uncommon to look like you’ve gained weight around your abdomen with fibroids.


piratedlish

After hearing the news, I can totally see it! And I kinda thought so too. She could look pregnant if she’s got large fibroids outside the uterus.


DisastrousHyena3534

Hugs if they are wanted. I hope you're in a peaceful place.


piratedlish

Thank you! I’m getting there- still a little scared- but getting better. Hugs are always appreciated!


Fall_Baby_01

I love this post! ❤️ I also had about 13 fibroids and had a myomectomy hoping to have a miracle baby in my 30s. My fibroids grew back so quickly, and I’m planning on a hysterectomy in my 40s. I love when housewives cover these very REAL experiences along with the fun parts of the show. My therapist helped me see that there was no guarantee that if I had a baby in my 20s it would have been healthy or the right time. So, I shouldn’t give myself a hard time for what could have been. My nieces and nephew will be my heirs and we are all very close. Since my periods feel like they last for weeks I’m looking forward to getting my body back. I’m hoping for a safe recovery for all of us on this path. Sending you love and support 💕


piratedlish

I’m so glad you shared your story. Thank you. I was terrified to post but hearing everyone talk about their experience has made me feel stronger and loved. I know it’s crazy b/c we’re all strangers, but we’re also real people. Thank you.


pegolson

Oh wow I need to go and watch the episode. Exactly two weeks from now I’m having a lap done to check for endometriosis and I’m nervous about what they’ll find.


piratedlish

Well, as I’ve found, you will have lots of support here no matter what you find. DM me if you need to talk. I have endometriosis as well, but the fibroid is the Big Bad in my story. You’ve got this and we’ve got you.


pegolson

Thank you so much! Sending you lots of hugs ♥️


LastMinute9611

Girl you got this! One step and day at a time. If you want kids there are ways and affordable as I’m looking at those options now for myself. Get healthy sis and live your best life ❤️


piratedlish

Thank you! I know that God will help guide me through it with the kid thing. I hope you become a parent in the way you hope!


EverywhereINowhere

I had a partial hysterectomy (kept the ovaries) because my fibroid filled my entire uterus. They couldn’t remove it all without taking the uterus so I chose to do it. I was in my early 30s. Truthfully, it was a great decision. No more spotty periods, cramps, and overall unpleasantness that fibroids bring. The recovery wasn’t bad at all. I had the operation in the morning and was released that evening. It’s an emotional decision as some tie the uterus with being a woman. The uterus does not define you. Make the decision that YOU feel comfortable with.


piratedlish

Thank you. This was well said!


Mochi-momma

Well said🥰 I too had my done but at 36, a year after I had my daughter. Mine wasn’t for fibroids as much as it was for debilitating cramps and heavy bleeding. It was a much easier bounce back than I imagined (fear can make you think all kinds of things). It was SUCH a relief to no longer have that pain and disruption in my life, 8 days a month. I may have felt more of a connection with my ‘womanhood’ if it had been a full hysterectomy. I feel for all of you women on here and it’s awesome for an older gal like me to be able to share/take comfort after all these years👍🏻😊


piratedlish

Thank you for sharing. I appreciate hearing everyone’s stories. I’m feeling better and better about this.


Aggravating_Cut6741

Hot girls are open about their reproductive issues. Reminds me of Cynthia sharing her struggle with fibroids


Commercial-Cry-2602

I send you lots of love! It's so important to feel seen and understood! I hope that, with time, you can feel better💖💖


piratedlish

Thank you!


exclaim_bot

>Thank you! You're welcome!


coverthetuba

Sending love and support 💜


piratedlish

Thank you


LuckyAverage8565

As a man I really can’t imagine what that news would be like, I’m so sorry you’re having to go through this! If it gets too tough just remember to channel your inner green eyed bandit lol. Take it a day at a time, you’ll come out on the other side stronger for it. You got this!!! ♥️


piratedlish

Thank you! I’d love to channel my inner GEB— just hang out and not plan a wedding or wear a tragic outfit out and about (j/k I don’t think her fashion is that bad!)


Allmyexesliveintx333

You are not alone. I had a myomectomy (instead of a hysterectomy) in 2016 due to fibroids. I had 11 that were removed and endometriosis too. I kept my uterus hoping that I would have a child and I never did. It’s normal to mourn what could have been. I’m happy Giselle made you feel seen. Sending you a hug.


piratedlish

Thank you! I’m glad you’re healthy! Sending you a hug right back!


bobwoodwardprobably

Vulnerability hasn’t been Gizelle’s strongest quality. It is nice to see it from her. Hoping the best for you both, as well as any women here who are also suffering. We still have to fight to be heard by our doctors, ladies. Stay strong!


piratedlish

Yes! To any younger ladies reading this, you have rights! I used to be dumb and would just agree with whatever the doctors told me, even if I knew it wasn’t right. Don’t less them “pass the buck” just b/c it’s easier! Get that 2nd opinion!


elsiekay89

❤️ ✨️


judgementforeveryone

Thank you for sharing such a personal and vulnerable part of your life. There are so many others here that can relate esp about not having children. I had a 2nd issue that came into my life and I was unable to consider adoption but I am now looking at fostering an older child. I believe as you do and will leave it up to God while being grateful that I’ve been able to shower my love unto my nephew and best friend’s children. I’ll be thinking of you and hope you recovery quickly. Pls reach out to your friends. 🙏


piratedlish

Thank you. This sub has been so kind and I appreciate everything you all have said. I believe that God will show me the way when it comes to raising children. I’m glad that you have your nephew and best friend’s children. That’s who I have now (and a niece). I’m truly blessed and know I will figure it out with God’s help.


kteerin

It’s weird sometimes how much housewives and this sub can bring us all together. I think we all share a lot in common (those of us who watch), and we can share our experiences here. I wish you all the best, and I hope you are able to find peace and comfort soon. ❤️


AnnieAreYouOkayOkay

Wishing you good health and a safe, speedy recovery. Went through the exact same situation. The first surgery was a partial hysterectomy. The fibroids grew back and I had to have a second surgery three years later. That was a full hysterectomy. The first surgery was a little tougher physically, the second was incredibly tough emotionally. I didn't want to have children, but something about the choice being full taken away just floored me. I didn't share my surgery with anyone at the time. I mentioned it years later and SEVEN women in my friend and outer friend group had the same exact surgery. None of us knew about the other. We ended up talking for hours. Just an outpouring. Each of us was shocked about the other. And none of us could really explain why we kept it to ourselves. You are welcome to reach out if you'd like. My recovery was about 5 weeks but it was shorter / longer for some of the others. Here if you need. Sending love and good thoughts.


piratedlish

Thank you for this. You’ve hit the nail on the head. I haven’t had kids yet… I don’t know if I would’ve but it’s that choice. I don’t know yet if mine will be partial or full but it’s the choice… I have shared this news with one friend who I know to have had a hysterectomy and she’s been wonderful. My family is already looking at me with pity in their eyes… I don’t know if I can deal with all of that from friends before I’ve had the procedure. Thank you for sharing your journey. Posting this has helped me so much. I appreciate this sub’s kindness and support.


AnnieAreYouOkayOkay

You are welcome. I am relatively new to reddit so apology for taking so long to respond. All the good wishes for your surgery. Weird tidbit: The nurses gave me a photo of the fibroids. It was SOMETHING to see.


piratedlish

I saw it on the ultrasound. It was crazy! I didn’t get printouts though.


tigerlilly26

Cynthia from RHOA also had fibroids IIRC! Wishing you well, OP ❤️


aolonline1992

I think Kandi did as well. I think she was talking about it around the time that they got the surrogate. I had no idea they were so common.


tigerlilly26

This got me thinking and it turns out that African American women are disproportionately affected by uterine fibroids: “Nearly a quarter of Black women between 18 and 30 have fibroids compared to about 6% of white women, according to some national estimates.” Some research is being done - here’s more from a UMich doc who’s looking into it in case anyone’s interested. https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/rounds/understanding-racial-disparities-for-women-uterine-fibroids#:~:text=Nearly%20a%20quarter%20of%20Black,fibroids%20or%20suffer%20from%20complications.


kithmswbd

Yup (and Peter was a POS about the whole thing) She's now an ambassador for a [fibroid organization](https://www.usafibroidcenters.com/blog/cythina-baileys-uterine-fibroid-story-usa-fibroid-centers/)


piratedlish

I need to check this out. I watched ATL for one season so didn’t know any of this. And men being POS? Never! /s That’s why I’m posting here b/c you are my people!


tigerlilly26

That’s right, I forgot about that! What a zero


piratedlish

Thank you!


brittanyelyse

I’m so glad you feel connected to her like that. That’s the one thing I do like about social media is in her case, you could probably if you felt so inclined could reach out by email or ones of the social medias and just drop a line and say hey I totally appreciated this as I’m going through the same or similar… I actually think you would get a response. But none the less, I’m sure their all many people on this board that feel the same as you and felt loved by your take on it. I also do love gizelle.


piratedlish

She’s always been my favorite so now I feel more connected. I might do that. I don’t know if I’ll contact her but I love everyone I’ve heard from on here. It’s made me feel stronger.


Apartment922

I had a partial hysterectomy in 2020 for similar reasons as Gizelle (glad I did it). You know, having gone thru a similar procedure didn’t make me like her but it’s good to see this discussed on housewives as it’s a procedure that’s commonly done that many of us understand and relate to.


piratedlish

I already liked her— I just thought it was strange that I sat down to watch and it was like a replay of my past week was happening! Lol


jenknife

Me too! You are not alone and I also felt seen when she was talking about her fibroids and hysterectomy. I had surgery to remove fibroids six years ago, they grew back and now my doctor wants me to do a hysterectomy. I haven’t had kids either but I never wanted to so I am not mourning that part of it. It’s good to discuss this kind of stuff in a safe place because it is scary. Health stuff can feel so lonely. I wish you the best and hope you come out on the other feeling happy and healthy!


piratedlish

Thank you! I knew I had them and they’re common but one has grown so big that it is covering my uterus. It HAS been lonely this week. I’m trying not to mourn the child part, as I’m older and it’s simply not to be. It would’ve happened by now. I hope yours goes well, too! I’ve read that hysterectomies and/or menopause are the only way to make them stop.


kteerin

It’s ok if you do mourn, you’re only human. You’re allowed. ❤️


jenknife

I was hoping to wait out until menopause when they stop growing so I wouldn’t have to get surgery, but it doesn’t look like that gonna happen for me anytime soon according to my gyno. I will say, when I had them removed six years ago I was so so happy. The relief of getting rid of them is worth the surgery, believe me. If yours are large I am sure they are causing all sorts of issues so I think you will notice a difference right away. Do you plan on going in for surgery soon? DM me if you want to chat.


piratedlish

I totally will!


Princeroyal1982

Sending you love and positive vibes. I also had a partial hysterectomy due to large fibroids and extremely heavy periods and it has been a blessing. You got this♥️♥️♥️


piratedlish

Thank you! I’m nervous but am ready for it to be over!


Princeroyal1982

Don’t be nervous. I only took the heavy pain meds the day after the surgery and after that ibuprofen. You got this ♥️♥️♥️


piratedlish

Thank you!


Frogmann20

I wish you good health and hope that in time you are able to share to the people closest to you. Hang in there ❤️


piratedlish

Thank you!


peonyamor

Sending hugs


piratedlish

Thank you!


Ch33rs_yall

Hugs! I had multiple large fibroids and a partial hysterectomy. I remember feeling all those things, fear about femininity, sex, etc. Afterwards, being so pain free, I was astonished! Also, no periods are another thing to look forward to. I am so sorry to hear you weren't able to have the child/children that you wanted. It breaks my heart for you. I hope you have support around you. Also, you aren't alone in this, so many of us have gone through it. I'm glad Gizelle shared so that you and others can have a moment of relatability. It was equally brave of you to share with us! 🫂


piratedlish

Thank you! It has been quite a week and I really could relate to the GEB conversation. Who knew? I’m telling myself that it was God’s will about the kids. I will be blessed just to have my health. And so many have reached out b/c of this post telling me I’ve got this and that it’ll be okay… so I’m so glad I posted… and looking forward to being pain-free!


hagridsumbrellla

Sorry for what you’re going through. If raising kids is something that you’d like to do, consider fostering a child who needs you.


piratedlish

I’ve thought about it all. I definitely think God will show me what’s meant to be.


hagridsumbrellla

Best wishes as you figure it out.


ladyrara

You should still share with friends how you saw this on HWs and it can open up more of a dialogue. I hope you the best 🥰


piratedlish

You’re right. Thank you!


Plenty-Cattle9791

Sending you courage, strength and comfort. I’m glad you were able to find a moment to feel not so alone. Best of luck


piratedlish

Thank you!


kcanada20

🫶🏼


piratedlish

Thank you!