How do we make informed choices about our health?

In the heart of caring for our families, it’s crucial to remember that our health decisions ripple out, affecting those we love. I was struck by this realization when I first heard Stacia Alexander share her personal journey during a panel hosted by Let’s Talk Menopause. Her story is a poignant reminder of the complexities that often accompany medical decisions.

What led Stacia to the operating table?

Stacia Alexander’s journey began as many do — with pain and discomfort that gradually escalated over time. For two decades, she battled painful, recurrent fibroids, a struggle faced by many women. The decision to undergo a hysterectomy in 2015 wasn’t made lightly, but like many, Stacia placed her trust in her surgeon to guide her through the maze of options.

The operating room is a place of vulnerability, and it’s where Stacia found herself confronted with a critical decision. Her surgeon, unfortunately, hadn’t prepared her adequately, skipping explanations regarding the function of her ovaries and the potential repercussions of their removal. Stacia’s choice was made under pressure, in a moment when clarity and reassurance were needed most.

What happened after the surgery?

In the aftermath of the surgery, Stacia experienced a whirlwind of changes. She faced dramatic shifts in her metabolism, mood swings, and even discomfort in her fingers. These symptoms were puzzling, especially when she wasn’t fully aware of their source.

It took Stacia three years to piece together the puzzle — the removal of her ovaries, key hormone-producing glands, had triggered these changes. This revelation led her to discover hormone therapy as a path to reclaiming some sense of normalcy. But this realization came with the knowledge that she might have had the choice to avoid these consequences altogether.

How can we advocate for ourselves in medical settings?

Stacia’s experience underscores the importance of informed consent and the power of self-advocacy in medical settings. As parents and caregivers, we often put our own needs aside for the sake of our families. However, understanding our medical choices is an essential part of caring for our loved ones.

Here are some nurturing steps to consider:

1. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider to explain all available options. Understanding is key.

1. Seek Second Opinions: Consult with multiple professionals, especially for significant medical decisions like a hysterectomy.

1. Research and Reflect: Use trusted resources to research procedures. Reflection can help clarify your values and priorities.

1. Bring Support: A family member or friend can provide emotional support and help you navigate complex information during consultations.

What can we learn from Stacia’s story?

Stacia Alexander’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and advocacy in healthcare. Her experience encourages us to demand clarity and transparency, urging us to be active participants in our health decisions. While the path to informed choices may be challenging, it is paved with empowerment and the knowledge that we are caring for ourselves and, by extension, those we love.

As we navigate our own health journeys, let Stacia’s story be a guiding light that fosters conversations around informed medical decisions. Together, we can create a healthcare environment that values understanding, empathy, and shared decision-making.