naturegirl5 (@naturegirl5)

@nancybb, Like you, I'm seeing small improvements after following the PT program. Some of the exercises and stretching seem almost too easy but they do work. My stretch and range of motion have improved. And like you, I've had lower back problems. My lower back is getting better too even though I had lower back pain prior to surgery.

@miriam57. Hoping you are resting and being good to yourself now that you are finished. Since your original post asked about the effects of your treatment on sex, I'd like to share my experience. I'm 68 years old and have been in a long-term relationship for 12 years. Before I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in July, 2019, I was already having painful intercourse due to vaginal dryness. I was scared and the pain became worse after a radical hysterectomy with salpingo-oopherectomy. I had already received mixed messages from my local medical providers on what to do about the vaginal dryness even before last year. When I returned to Mayo Clinic in February this year for my 6 month cancer survivor check, the nurse practitioner who did my gynecological exam gave me information about Mayo Clinic's Women Sexual Health Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/womens-health/center-for-womens-health/services In May, II saw a PT who specializes in pelvic floor health and a psychologist who specializes in sex therapy. The education, advice, and suggested exercises and treatments have made a huge difference. In just these few months, our sex life has been much better. Is there a Women's Sexual Health Clinic near where you live? I read that another member here posted an online resource for pelvic floor health. When you are ready, I hope you will allow these skilled professionals to help and support you and your partner. I'm wishing all the best in your treatment and recovery.

@merry. I'm so sorry to hear this. Karyn, may your mother's memory be a blessing.

Thanks, Sue.

Thank you, klarnold. I am cycling although it's recreational. Still, it's good exercise that does not aggravate my hip. Like you, I wish someone, anyone, would have said that it will take more than a few months to get back to where I was a few years ago when I could be more active. And yes, listen to your body. I wish you all the best, klarnold, at work in your nursing job and at play.

Hi Karyn, I see that you haven't posted in awhile. I just got on this thread and I'm wondering how your mother's appetite is currently. I didn't see a recommendation to consult with a nutritionist and I'm wondering if that might help. I am a cancer survivor (endometrial cancer) and I consulted with a nutritionist at Mayo who specializes in working with this population. Now this was for me and I found the information helpful and the support from the nutritionist immeasurable. I understand how difficult it is to take care of your mother and try to encourage her to eat. My mother was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and lung cancer in 1997. (She died later that year). I lived across the country and visited her whenever I could. Medical care has changed so much since 1997 and it never occurred to me to ask for a nutrition consult at that time for my mother. You and your sister are very caring daughters and I just know that your mother appreciates all that you do for her even if she doesn't tell you that every day. Blessings to you, your mother, and your family.

I am finally seeing some progress after my original post back in March (I started this thread). I started PT a month ago (it took that long to get in) and I'm doing the recommended exercises. I'm using a Theraband for external hip rotation strengthening while standing and then also doing internal hip rotation strengthening with a band that requires that I lie on my side, bend my knees at a 90 degree angle and move my legs apart. The PT also added a coordination/gait exercise that requires that I braid my steps laterally through 18inch squares (like a hopscotch that I will draw on our driveway with sidewalk chalk). I'm using a Bosu to do squats. Now that is challenging! So, lots of exercises to work on balance, coordination and strength. Thanks to all who posted here with support and suggestions. I'll say to all, push for physical therapy. It makes a difference and you are doing something for your own progress. My surgeon said back in February that I'd be hiking this summer. I'm not quite there yet but I hope to be hiking on trails this Fall.

@stparker54. My heart is breaking for you. I felt like you when I first received my cancer diagnosis. I was in shock and my thoughts kept returning to how much time I had left. My treatment was at Mayo Clinic-Rochester and they have a huge support network for cancer survivors. I'm not sure what they have online right now but I'm thinking much of what Mayo Clinic has in group support and with therapists has gone online. Are you located in an area with a cancer center? What resources are available to you? I hope you have support from your loved ones and friends however I also hope you have or will have a therapist you can talk with. I will keep you in my prayers.