Fifty percent of American women are prescribed a hysterectomy resulting in 550,000 hysterectomies being performed each year (five times the rate in Europe). Yet many women are unaware of the full range of medical alternatives and the long-term consequences.

This ground-breaking book presents an empowering and reassuring guide to preventing and coping with hysterectomy. Based on a review of over 3500 recent studies and cited research, along with her own research, Dr. Cutler discusses every aspect of the surgery in clear, comprehensive language.

She explains the extensive medical evidence showing the vital role of the uterus and ovaries to a woman's well-being. Dr Cutler tells why in most cases hysterectomy should be avoided and, if unavoidable, what steps should be taken to maintain and restore health before surgery, during recovery, and forever after.

READERS WILL DISCOVER HOW TO:

• Obtain an accurate diagnosis
• Improve sexual satisfaction and overall well-being
• Find the best doctor and make the right decision about procedures and alternatives
• Benefit from correctly dosed hormonal replacement therapy
• Lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, and bone loss
• Overcome urinary incontinence and post-surgical depression

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

1. Women's Wellness: Securing your Healthrights

2. The Hormonal Symphony: How the Healthy Reproductive System Works

3. When Disease Strikes: Symptoms and Diagnosis

4. Some Common Uterine Diseases: Their Cuases and Treatment Options

5. Planning for Surgery: Choices for Optimal Health

6. Hormonal Replacement Therapy: Benefits, Side Effects, and Contraindications

7. The Hormones Used in HRT

8. Maintaining Bone Health

9. Protecting your Cardiovascular Health

10. Sexual Life after Hysterectomy

11. Overcoming Depression

12. Overcoming Urinary Incontinence

13. Nutrition: Designing a Healthful Eating Plan

14. Controllable Health Hazards: Obesity and Smoking

15. Exercise Will Keep you Going

Appendix, Acknowledgements, References, Index

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS RESPOND:

"Very important! By clearly outlining options to patients, Dr. Cutler's book aids in individuation of patient care. That is what both a patient and her physician strive for."

-Millicent Zacher, D.O. Reproductive Surgeon, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA

---

"A timely, long-needed book that is must reading for all women advised to have hysterectomy and by all women who have had a hysterectomy. And, with the comprehensive review of the intricate relationships between sexual life, hormones and surgery, this book should also be read by all physicians performing hysterectomies...[this book] will help women of all ages, even those without gynecologic problems because of the excellent chapters on preventative medicine."

-R. Don Gambrell, Jr. M.D., Dept. Physiology and Endocrinology, Medical College of Georgia

---

"Dr. Winnifred Cutler uses her profound knowledge of women's sexual and reproductive systems to impart knowledge and insights you will not find anywhere else. Her information is extrememly thorough, well-supported in the scientific literature, and also very wise. If you are thinking about a hysterectomy , recovering from one, or wanting to find unique new insight on the wisdom of your body, be sure to read this book."

-Sadja Greenwood, M.D., Author of Menopause, Naturally and Medical Self-Care Book of Women's Health

---

READERS RESPOND:

A supportive husband from New York...

"My wife had a hysterectomy with removal of ovaries 3 1/2 years ago...We read Hysterectomy:Before and After and feel it is the very best on the subject. You've done us and many others a great service."

A woman from Florida wrote...


"If I had listened to the first doctor I would have a complete hysterectomy...from your book I was able to find a new doctor and eliminate the need for hysterectomy through alternative treatment. My prognosis is just fine...thank you again for helping me."

AUTHOR'S EXCERPT FROM CHAPTER 5: PLANNING FOR SURGERY, P. 99

DECIDING ON THE SURGERY YOU WILL HAVE: Depending on the disease or condition that is being addressed, a woman and her surgeon can explore together the several surgical options available [each option is illustrated]. Myomectomy, sometimes referred to as "reconstructive" surgery, which removes only the diseased portion of the uterus, preserving most of the organ. Subtotal hysterectomy, or supravaginal hysterectomy, in which the cervix is retained within the body. Total hysterectomy, which removes the entire uterus, including the cervix, but retains the ovaries. Total hysterectomy plus tubes and ovaries, technically known as hyterectomy with bilateral salpingo-ovariectomy.

Consider Myomectomy: A myomectomy removes the diseased portion of the uterus, usually a fibroid tumor, a group of fibroids, or other growths. The surgeon then reconstructs the remaining uterus into as nearly normal a uterine tissue as can be salvaged. By reconstructing the uterus, rather than simply removing it, one has a high likelihood of preserving normal uterine function. Thus the glandular secretions of the endometrial lining (such as the beta endorphins), lubrication and prostaglandins from the cervix, and other as yet unknown functions can continue as before.

Customers have found us on the AMAZON.COM website and offer these comments...

Available in paperback only. $16.00