Updated: April 22, 2021
Originally Published: September 26, 2015
Last year, my tumultuous journey with my ovaries reached its conclusion: I underwent a complete hysterectomy on my eldest daughter’s birthday. Eighteen years earlier, my reproductive organs had played a pivotal role in bringing my first child into the world, and three years later, they contributed to the birth of my second child. However, in the years that followed, my ovaries seemed to turn against me without warning.
During a routine gynecological exam, my doctor casually mentioned, “You have a small cyst on your right ovary,” as if discussing the weather. My immediate reaction was tears. At 32, I was navigating the complexities of being a newly single mother to two young kids, managing a full-time job from home, and dealing with household responsibilities—including an unexpected mouse problem. I simply couldn’t handle another stressor, especially one that began with the letter “C.” To me, “cyst” and “cancer” were synonymous. My doctor reassured me, “Most of these resolve on their own,” but mine did not.
Thus began a 12-year battle with my defiant ovaries, which resulted in five cysts, four surgeries, one unexpected pregnancy, and a wealth of life lessons. Here are some of the most significant insights I gained:
1. Plans Can Change Unexpectedly
My cyst did not follow the anticipated course; instead, it defied my doctor’s predictions and became a painful affliction. This experience taught me that no matter how carefully I plan, life can take unexpected turns. I had to choose between adapting gracefully to the changing circumstances or resisting them with frustration. I admit, I tried both approaches at different times.
2. Adversity Can Strengthen You
As I prepared for surgery to remove the cyst, I was gripped by fear, especially given my history of severe allergic reactions. However, I ultimately had no choice. My doctor opted for a spinal epidural to minimize anesthesia risks, allowing me to undergo surgery without general anesthesia. Surviving that experience made me feel invincible, reinforcing the belief that I could endure anything life threw my way.
3. Trust Your Instincts
Less than a year after my surgery, I felt familiar discomfort and suspected another cyst. Despite reassurances from others that it was merely scar tissue or anxiety, I trusted my instincts and insisted on further investigation. This led to another surgery that revealed a benign cyst. I learned that my intuition is often correct and should not be dismissed.
4. Allow Yourself to Express Frustration
Six months post-surgery, I found myself facing yet another cyst. Frustrated and overwhelmed, I let out a series of expletives in response to my predicament. Sometimes, it’s necessary to vent and express frustration openly, whether through cursing or other means, especially when life becomes too burdensome.
5. What’s Meant to Be Will Happen
Before my third surgery, I urged my doctor to remove my ovaries entirely, but she counseled against it, citing future possibilities. Miraculously, shortly after, I met a wonderful man, and at 40, I found out I was unexpectedly pregnant. This twist of fate left me grateful for my remaining ovary, which brought joy I never anticipated.
6. Unlearned Lessons Repeat Themselves
Unfortunately, I learned that unresolved lessons often reappear. At 44, one ovary produced yet another cyst, leading to a hysterectomy. The fear of surgery loomed large, but ultimately, I hope this experience has imparted the necessary lessons for my future.
Navigating my journey with my ovaries has been tumultuous yet enlightening. For those interested in family planning and home insemination options, resources like this informative article and this comprehensive guide can provide valuable insights into fertility and pregnancy. Additionally, check out this essential kit for at-home insemination.
In summary, my experiences with my ovaries have imparted crucial lessons about life, resilience, and the importance of trusting oneself. I hope to carry these insights forward, equipped to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
Keyphrase: Life lessons from my ovaries
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