Re: RAI vs. Surgery -

[Guest guest]

Hi

I answered your first post a bit late so I'm not sure if you've seen it,

therefor I have copied it below because it addresses some of the

questions you have asked here.

Hi

Congratulations on the birth of your first baby boy. From your

description it wasn't easy. Glad he is healthy.

> I would like imput from others who have gone through surgery.

I had a sub total thyroidectomy because I wanted to get pregnant ASAP.

In short, (because it is late, but you can email me directly if you want

more detail), I was 39 when diagnosed. I probably had GD for at least 2

years, during which I had 2 miscarriages. My endo felt surgery was the

best option given my desire to have a baby or two (my 'second' family I

have a 20yr old boy). I researched and agreed. I had surgery and fell

pregnant the very next month and had very healthy pregnancy (increased

my thyroxine at about wk 14) and then a healthy boy - now 2yrs 2months.

I then fell again 4 months later and now have a healthy 13 month old girl.

The surgery went well over all. I posted step by step - you can find it

all in the archives starting about Aug 2000 under .

I had some damage to my parathyoids - one slightly damaged one removed

and replanted (it was sitting in front of the thyroid because of the

goitre). After initial calcium deficiency - easily treated - I believe

the paras are now fine. I do take 600mg of calcium most days anyway.

I reacted to the GA which was not pleasant for a couple of days but I

recovered quickly, went home on day 5 and had one month off work resting.

For me this was a great decision. I got my two babies. I feel healthy -

I am on thyroxine but it seems to be working fine. I do have some

thyroid left for the extra, natural hormones.

The questions that were posted are a great guide to help you discuss it

with the Drs. My Dr wanted to do a total because it was easier to

operate, and no chance of active GD creating a problem in the future

(apparently approx 5% of sub totals have a reoccurrence of

hyperthyroidism - goitre - due to GD - this happened to Simon from the

UK). So far I have tested negative to the GD antibodies - 3 antibody

tests since the surgery. I also made lifestyle changes and had

homeopathic remedies to help the immune system.

> Also if someone can explain to me how to not receive e-mails every

> time someone posts that would be helpful.

Sorry - I don't know how to.

Take care - have a look in archives. Over the last few years a number of

members have had healthy babies while on PTU also.

Cheers

Caroline