Episode #59: Navigating Hysterectomies & Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: What Every Woman Should Know

In this episode of The Happy Hormone Club Podcast, hosts Tina Pruitt and Dr. Scott Resnick dive deep into the often-misunderstood topic of hysterectomies and abnormal uterine bleeding, especially as it relates to perimenopause.

They address key questions submitted by our listeners, shedding light on what a hysterectomy really entails, when it's a necessary solution, and the impact it can have on a woman's health.

They also explore the difference between hormonal and anatomical causes of abnormal uterine bleeding and how to make informed decisions regarding treatment options and delve deeper into the complexities surrounding abnormal uterine bleeding and the various causes, both anatomical and hormonal.

This episode is packed with valuable information that empowers women to take control of their uterine health and make informed decisions alongside their healthcare providers. Whether you’re dealing with unexplained bleeding or simply seeking to understand your body better, this episode offers practical advice and expert insights.

Meet Your Hosts

Tina Pruitt

Tina Pruitt is the Success & Accountability Coach for The Happy Hormone Club and a Holy Fire/Usui Reiki practitioner.

Her unique perspective of personal healing guides her as she collaborates with clients, encouraging them to embrace the foundational strategies that lead to vibrant emotional, physical, and spiritual health.

Dr. Scott Resnick

Scott Resnick MD trained at the University of Colorado in General Surgery and OB/GYN. He was Boarded as an OB/GYN in 2003, and completed a Fellowship in Regenerative and Anti-aging Medicine in 2012.

He has practiced Functional Medicine since 2012, and is a pioneer in the use of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), using natural hormones with his patients exclusively since 2001.

WATCH ALONG BELOW

Here’s an overview of what was discussed:

  • Introduction to Hysterectomies: Understanding the basic definitions and differences between types of hysterectomies, including total, partial, and oophorectomy.

  • Personal Story: My own experience with a hysterectomy at 45, and how it led me to a deeper understanding of its impact on women's health.

  • The Role of Mainstream vs. Natural Medicine: How a balanced approach can provide the best solutions for managing perimenopause symptoms and other health concerns.

  • Hormonal vs. Anatomical Causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Differentiating between causes such as estrogen dominance, fibroids, and polyps, and understanding their impact on menstrual cycles.

  • Importance of Proper Diagnosis: Why thorough medical history, physical exams, and correctly timed ultrasounds are crucial in diagnosing and treating abnormal uterine bleeding.

  • Empowering Women: Encouraging women to advocate for their health, understand their bodies, and ask the right questions when consulting with healthcare providers.

  • Diagnostic Precision: Why getting your ultrasound at the right time in your cycle is crucial for detecting issues like polyps and fibroids.

  • Saline Infusion Sonography (SIS): Learn how this advanced ultrasound technique can help outline the exact anatomy of the uterus, providing clear insights into potential issues.

  • Understanding Fibroids: Discover the impact of fibroids based on their location in the uterus and how they might contribute to symptoms like pain, discomfort, and abnormal bleeding.

  • Modern Surgical Approaches: The benefits of hysteroscopy for removing polyps and fibroids with minimal invasiveness, compared to outdated blind procedures like D&C.

  • Hysterectomy Considerations: Discuss the situations where hysterectomy might be necessary and why retaining the ovaries can be beneficial for long-term health.

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Understanding how hormonal imbalances, particularly the high estrogen-to-low progesterone ratio, can lead to abnormal bleeding and the simple steps to correct it.

  • Functional Approaches: Explore non-surgical methods to manage hormonal imbalances, including the use of bioidentical progesterone, weight management, fiber intake, and supporting detox pathways.