Andrea G – Los Angeles, California:
Bill Parker is a uniquely gifted surgeon who manages to do what every other gynecologist assured me was not do-able. He removed a two-pound fibroid from my uterus laparoscopically. He did not compromise – nor did he remove – the uterus. (The shocking fact of needless and countless hysterectomies is a whole other story.) In Dr. Parker’s hands, I was home the same day and felt only discomfort for a few days (easily manageable). He invites all questions, supplies answers, shows you videos, diagrams – all the while demonstrating extraordinary understanding – as well as vast knowledge and experience – that puts him at the forefront of his profession. I spent years – and absurd amounts of money and time in my quest for alternative methods of shrinking my fibroids. Why? Because I was adamantly opposed to a hysterectomy or full-blown abdominal surgery. (One noted gynecologist was so eager to be thorough in the removal of my fibroids that he recommended radical surgery that would open my entire chest cavity. Honest – you can’t make this stuff up.) Dr. Parker was alone in his opinion that he could remove this sizable fibroid of mine laparoscopically. And he did so brilliantly. Run – do not walk – to see him if you need a second, third or twelfth opinion.
Rachel – Los Angeles, California:
After seven years of biannual monitoring, I was very nervous when my fibroids grew to such troublesome, uncomfortable sizes they needed removal. Four doctors I consulted with almost immediately suggested hysterectomies, C-sections and other aggressive treatments. Doctor Parker was the polar opposite – and also my last hope. Dr. Parker came highly recommended from experts I sought on both US coasts–in fact every head of every hospital I contacted mentioned him as the best in less invasive gynecological procedures. In all my years of medical exams, I’ve never once met a more thorough, patient, caring or warm physician. Most doctors rush you through consultations and appointments. Though the positions and sizes of my fibroids were varied and complicated to remove, he didn’t jump to wide-sweeping surgery, in fact he encouraged me to get further tests to better inform us -to him ultra sound pictures weren’t the end all as every other doctor felt, Dr. Parker wanted all my options to be crystal clear to us both. He is the most rare, hands on and available expert and gyn I have ever met. During each and every step before and after my robotic laproscopic myomectomy I felt confident, comforted and open to asking any and all questions. Right after surgery, I called him with concerns and he came to see me in person, bright and early, and without my asking. Dr. Parker is positively the best in the business, and as a patient, I heartily attest his stellar reputation is true. I have referred many friends and colleagues to him and will continue to do so. As an avid researcher, too, Dr. Parker is a precious gift to the profession and a rare gem to his patients.
A.P.:
Bottom line – a year after my fibroid surgery, at 36, I got pregnant on my first try and had an adorable son. Over 3 years later, I am still fibroid free. Dr. Parker’s expert surgical care saved my uterus.
The long story- I had dozens of uterine fibroids, ranging in size, that totaled a 5 month pregnancy. I am the type of person who will try everything prior to surgery and will seek out experts no matter where they are. I’m vegetarian etc. Bikram Yoga shrank my fibroids when they were egg sized, but I didn’t maintain it. Then when they ballooned in size, I flew to D.C. to try alternative methods with Dr. Warshowsky, who wrote a book on healing fibroids. Though we tried, mine were too big at the time to change in the year I gave myself to shrink them naturally. The next stop was finding a surgeon who would do his best to maintain my uterus for having children. I, of course, did my research and found Dr. Parker. People I asked in the medical field respected him and I immediately felt comfortable with my choice. I even researched plastic surgeons to close the myomectomy only to learn that he knows how to do plastic surgery sutures as well. He’s warm, knowledgeable and an expert in his field. He checked in on me each morning at 7 am after my surgery to make sure I was okay. He continues to be my gynecologist because I have that much faith in him. Research was the toughest part for me. Rest assured you have come to the right place.
Jenny. A. – Toronto, Ontario, Canada:
Six years ago, at the age of 35, I thought I had taken care of my fibroids after going through the UFE treatment. Unfortunately, the relief was short lived and two years later, I started having symptoms all over again. The 11 cm fibroid felt heavy in my abdomen, filled my uterus, and put enough pressure on my bladder to make me constantly and urgently seek out every bathroom in every place wherever I went. This was just no way to live. My gynecologist immediately suggested a hysterectomy. I was not willing to do this. I consulted with other doctors in my area, even traveled out of town to get second and third opinions, only to be told over and over that Hysterectomy was the way to go. Two years passed and I almost gave up hope. Life was becoming increasingly unpleasant with all the symptoms I was experiencing. Against my wish, I was forcing myself to mentally prepare for a hysterectomy at the age of 39.
Blessings, fate, luck, karma – whatever one might call it – everything changed when I stumbled upon Dr. Parker’s website. I shared it with my husband and we read together, with awe, the many beautiful stories of so many happy and satisfied patients. We picked up the phone and called his office. We finally found a doctor who actually dedicates his life to saving women, like me, from unnecessary hysterectomies! Just knowing this made me feel like a winner. Over the next one year, I made innumerable phone calls and had any number of questions – every call returned promptly and answered patiently by Dr. Parker himself. Someone was actually listening to me and was compassionate enough to understand my desire of keeping my uterus and removing just the fibroids. Why was this so hard for other doctors to get?
Truth be told – it was the best decision I ever made! This past December 2011, I traveled from Toronto, Ontario, to Santa Monica, California to see Dr. Parker. He warmly welcomed me and my husband into his office. Together, we reviewed my MRI on a computer screen (which no other doctor had ever done), and after performing a few examinations, Dr. Parker explained to us in detail everything we needed to know about the location of my fibroids, what to expect from surgery and recovery and everything in between, we agreed that it was in my best interest to go through an abdominal myomectomy. Even though surgery made me very nervous, I knew that I could put my faith in Dr.Parker. Here he was, this experienced, skilled and gifted surgeon, backed with tremendous subject matter knowledge, yet so humble, patient and kind, putting me at ease to ask and express anything I felt and wanted to know about my condition. I knew I had come to the right place.
Surgery was scheduled and everything went well. When I opened my eyes, I heard Dr. Parker’s calming voice telling me that I was doing great. Knowing that the fibroids were gone and my uterus was intact was a good feeling. I was eager to get well soon! I am happy to say that two weeks later, I am back in Toronto, ready to begin the New Year. My search for hope and the removal of fibroids ended with Dr. Parker. I hope yours will too. He is the best doctor I have ever met in all my life.
Thank you for your outstanding care, Dr. Parker! I will always remain grateful to you.
R.K.:
For a million reasons, I am eternally grateful that I found Dr. Parker. He is without question the best doctor I’ve ever had. I trust him with absolute certainty.
As is so common and frightening, my previous doctor nonchalantly advised me that it was required that I have surgery. That was before I found Dr. Parker. Fortunately, through solid weeks of research, I identified Dr. Parker as a highly credentialed and accomplished industry expert and soon learned that surgery was not even necessary.
I quickly learned that Dr. Parker has the ideal combination of attributes that make him an all-round outstanding doctor. Working amidst the latest advances in medical technologies and techniques, he has the exposure, skills, experience, and track record to ensure the best action for each specific patient.
Genuinely compassionate, empathetic, collaborative, and present, he is focused while thoroughly and patiently answering all questions, guiding through possible scenarios, providing diagrams, and presenting information through photos and computer visuals. He comprehensively details his patient’s current status, options, and next steps. He clearly understands the importance of a patient being empowered with knowledge and confident in her decision.
Dr. Parker personally calls with the prompt delivery of test results and next steps. He is calming and I always leave his office feeling strong and confident that I am in the best of care. And, always, forever grateful that I found Dr. Parker.
As if that’s not enough, Dr. Parker is also incredibly good-natured. He’s personable, approachable, warm, supportive, and without question, one I trust wholeheartedly to look out for what’s in my best interest. This gives me confidence and peace of mind that I’m doing what’s healthiest for me.
A.S. – New York:
Dr. Parker saved me from having a more invasive surgery than I needed!
I’m a 51 yr. old woman who was suffering for a while with several fibroids, one being over 10cm. I was advised by my group of gynecologists (seven in all) that I trusted and have been with for many years, that my best forms of treatment would be to have a supracervical hysterectomy (removal of the upper body of the uterus) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). I even had several doctors suggest removing my ovaries as a precaution to developing any type of ovarian disease. When I expressed to them my desire to only have my fibroids removed they began to tell me that having the hysterectomy would be the shortest surgery even though my recovery time would have been between 6-8 weeks.
As a parent of a young child I expressed my concern about the surgery and the lengthy recovery time and they tried to reassure me that these treatments were in my best interests. When I asked about alternatives to these treatments a few doctors said that there were some available but that the surgery would be longer and that not all doctors are skilled in these techniques…that was all I needed to hear. I got on the internet and started doing my own research because this was my body!
I found Dr. Parker’s website and it was by far the most informative site I had come across. It was filled with information that I needed to help me make an informed decision. I began calling his office and talking with this staff members who were extremely helpful and kind. I corresponded with Dr. Parker and his office for a little over month providing them with my medical records for his review. Dr. Parker assured me that I was a good candidate for a less invasive surgery (laparoscopic myomectomy) and that my recovery time would around 2-3 weeks. Dr. Parker and his staff took the time to answer my most mundane questions with a high level of professionalism.
I flew from the East Coast and Dr. Parker made accommodations for me to feel rested prior to having my surgery. He explained everything to me, carefully going over my medical records and what I could expect before and after surgery. He has a wonderful bedside manner and validated my concerns. Dr. Parker visited me in the hospital and during my follow up visit to his office he continued to display a high level of concern for my well being. I feel so blessed to have found Dr. Parker. His level of expertise in his field is phenomenal! He was the only doctor who said that a woman has the right to preserve her organs if that’s her desire and it’s possible to do so. I have never had a doctor who I felt was so knowledgeable regarding the treatment of fibroids. I’m glad I found him! To any woman out there who might read this, I know the concerns you might be feeling, I was filled with anxiety but as I continue to recover (I’m getting around very nicely).
I know in my heart that I made the right choice having Dr. Parker perform my surgery. I know that in the future if I have any medical concerns I will consult with Dr. Parker because of his expertise. Dr. Parker is a rare gem. I wish he had an office here in NY (think about it Dr. P.) He is the absolute best!
K.H.:
After 7 years of suffering from extremely heavy periods, fatigue, bladder pressure, and hairloss due to iron deficiency, I was diagnosed with multiple fibroids. My gynecologist at the time recommended that I have a hysterectomy. I was not keen on the idea, especially since I was in my early 40’s at the time and nowhere near menopause.
I sought out a second opinion and was shocked when the doctor agreed with the first one!
Although these people seemed like fine MD’s, they didn’t specialize in any alternative treatments for fibroids. At least they wouldn’t discuss any with me!
I decided I needed a third opinion. Thanks to the internet, I found Dr. Parker’s website. I made an appointment right away. Because he is of the opinion that hysterectomy is the surgery of last resort, he took the time during the consultation to discuss all of the options available to me, including hysterectomy. He also listened patiently as I told him my story and answered all of my questions. I immediately felt at ease. I knew I’d finally found the right doctor.
I bought his book, “A Gynecologist’s Second Opinion” and read it in a day.
I felt very well-informed and was ready to proceed with surgery. In December of 2004, I had a hysteroscopic resection and a laparascopic myomectomy.
I spent one day in the hospital. The following morning, Dr. Parker came to visit me and told me to call him when I got home to let him know how I was doing and to keep in touch.
How many doctors do that?!
Because of the minimally invasive surgery (I had 4 tiny incisions on my abdomen), my recovery went quickly. I went on a short 2 mile hike 3 days later. And within a month, I resumed running. I felt great!
Now 7 years later, I am in perimenopause and my periods are virtually non-existent. I’ll never have to worry about fibroids again. I’m still feeling great and I am so happy that Dr. Parker offered me alternatives to a hysterectomy. I always recommend him to women friends (and complete strangers) who find themselves suffering from fibroids and heavy bleeding.
Thank you again, Dr. Parker . I cannot tell you how much I appreciate everything you have done for me.
Anonymous:
I suffered with heavy periods for many years (the “I can’t leave the house today” kind of heavy bleeding), but just thought it was the way my body was.
In my late 40s, I began having sleep-robbing night sweats, and sought the help of a gynecologist. At the intake interview, I described my heavy bleeding and night sweats. Regarding the heavy bleeding, the doctor said, “You probably have a fibroid.” He prescribed progesterone cream for the night sweats, and scheduled me for a pelvic exam a short time later. When he examined me, he cavalierly said, “You probably have a fibroid and you’ll probably have to have a hysterectomy.” I broke into tears. My fibroids then grew very quickly. In a matter of weeks, I looked 4 months pregnant. My clothes didn’t fit. The gynecologist recommended a sonogram and then an MRI. I had both. It was official: my uterus had quickly become the size of a football. (As I later found out, hormones can make fibroids grow at an alarming rate.)
I was frightened. I dropped those hormone creams like a hot potato. I sought a second opinion, and searched the web for more information. Thank goodness I found Dr. Parker’s website.
When I met with Dr. Parker, I was in a great deal of emotional distress. Dr. Parker carefully and patiently discussed all of the fibroid treatment options, including the “Watchful Waiting” approach. Dr. Parker explained that fibroids typically shrink significantly after menopause. I did not want to put myself through unnecessary surgery. Since fibroids are benign, and I was clearly starting to go through the menopausal process, I chose “Watchful Waiting.”
I had heavy bleeding for a few more years, but was willing to deal with it, and then it slowly began to subside. I learned other ways of managing my hot flashes and night sweats. I am now 56, have gone one year without a period, and am officially in menopause. And, I’m happy to say, my fibroids have indeed shrunk to negligible size. I can’t even feel them anymore.
I know every woman’s body is unique, as is each woman’s story. I can only speak for myself. But I know that it is thanks to Dr. Parker’s expertise, patience, and compassion that I was able to negotiate the menopausal transition on my own terms. I’m done with periods! And I did not “have to have” surgery. Thanks to Dr. Parker, I felt comfortable and confident with my choice to “Watch and Wait.” For me, it was the right choice.
I am not much of a testimonial writer, but I felt strongly that I should tell my story for others to hear. After all, what’s the use of suffering if we can’t use our experience and lessons learned to benefit others? Perhaps my story, along with those of so many other grateful patients of Dr. Parker which are posted here, will help other women to make their best and most informed fibroid treatment decisions.
My only regret is that I didn’t find Dr. Parker sooner! Many thanks and God bless him.
Janet S. – Scottsdale, AZ:
Menopause came and went – but my five fibroids didn’t shrink – so, after 20+ years, I had to address my fibroids directly. After been told by several physicians that they were too large and would require a hysterectomy – and probably not a vaginal one – I was referred to Dr. Parker to assess the possibility of pursuing a less invasive approach.
Dr. Parker took a lot of time to walk both my husband and me through an assessment of my situation and the alternative treatments available – in plain English, which was most appreciated. With both a professional and kind demeanor, we collectively determined that a myomectomy was the way to proceed.
The hospital was excellent. The care I received from Dr. Parker and the office staff was superb. Dr. Parker personally called with test results. The procedure’s behind me and I’m back to doing what I used to. While surgery should never be taken lightly, meeting with Dr. Parker and having a myomectomy was definitely the right one for me! The largest of my fibroids was pressing on my bladder – it’ a delight not to be stopping regularly at bathrooms anymore.
Robin – Buena Park, California:
I was diagnosed in 2000 with fibroids. I didn’t even know what a fibroid was! I didn’t have any symptoms so I chose the “wait and see” game. Well, by 2008 my belly was huge and I had a whole host of problems. I did my research and asked seven gynecologists for their opinion and they all said, “Hysterectomy!” I heard about Dr. Parker from a satisfied patient of his, I researched him and made an appointment. His office staff was warm and friendly and then meeting and talking to Dr. Parker was like being with family, easy, comfortable, and confident. Our visit was unhurried and informative as we discussed other treatments but we easily agreed upon the right treatment for me. After I woke up from my abdominal myomectomy I literally wept with joy. I knew I was completely fibroid free and the skilled hands of Dr. Parker made sure that I would heal well and I would have my life back. As a highly skilled gynecologic surgeon Dr. Parker realized that the low quality of life of most of his patients was because of fibroids. So this became his passion and focus and what an advantage for fibroid sufferers! With 4 out of 5 women suffering from fibroids I would say, when you have had enough of the confusion – call Dr. Parker!
Signed with eternal gratitude.
AB:
I came to Dr. Parker three years ago for a second opinion on a single large uterine fibroid. My previous doctor — associated with a large teaching hospital and in my insurance plan — had offered to do a hysterectomy but said there was nothing else he could do, due to the size of the fibroid. He did say I could look for a specialist to do one of the newer, experimental procedures. What that first doctor did not do, because he did not have time, was explain what was going on with the fibroid and what would happen if I did nothing.
Dr. Parker does not contract with my insurance, which probably explains why his office runs like clockwork and he does not rush you through your consultation. My initial visit went over one hour and cost me $400 which included an ultrasound. That was the best $400 I ever spent, because it saved me from getting a hysterectomy! Dr. Parker explained that the pain was a temporary effect of the fibroid’s growth cycle; that the fibroid was not twisting my organs around (which was my fear, based on the pain); and that depending on how I felt about living with the symptoms — which were likely to improve somewhat in the short term and even further after menopause when the fibroid shrinks — doing nothing was a perfectly reasonable option. I opted to wait it out, and am very glad that I did. I narrowly escaped an unnecessary hysterectomy, thanks to Dr. Parker.
My second and third visits were under $200 each, and I don’t remember how long they took because I wasn’t aware of the time: the appointment took place right on schedule and I did not feel rushed: we had plenty of time for the exam and questions.
I wish every woman with this condition had the ability to come see Dr. Parker. It’s worth the trip if you can make it from out of town.
Lisa – Canada:
I am super glad that computers exist! People have information readily available to them. I know if I could not research fibroids I would never have found Dr. Parker or his incredibly informative website. I would have been a victim of an unnecessary hysterectomy. It makes no sense to me that women are having their uteruses removed instead of their fibroids. It is unbelievable that a healthy organ is removed instead of the tumour. Yet it is happening to hundreds of thousands of women yearly!
What I do find annoying is how fibroids and the problems associated with them are trivialized by other doctors. I had at least half a dozen other health problems caused by my 4 inch fibroid. Yet my own doctor did not think too much of these problems and I had to treat myself naturally to find some relief. And how the negative life changing consequences of an unnecessary hysterectomy are also trivialized by other doctors. Women are often not told that they will go into menopause immediately after a hysterectomy.
Women will be informed about all their options for treatment with Dr. Parker. Dr. Parker gives out so much information that a woman will really understand what is going on and what type of treatment she wants to pursue. Instead of being told by other doctors what is going to be done. Dr. Parker is incredibly understanding, compassionate and sincere and just so very good at what he does. He is such a uniquely skilled surgeon and vastly knowledgable about fibroids and other womens problems. The reason other doctors are not removing women’s fibroids but are giving hysterectomies is because they do not know how to do this surgery, they don’t care to know or they don’t have the skill at fine surgery.
I have heard that women travel across the world to see Dr. Parker. I came easily from Canada. I mailed in my MRI, got a diagnosis, jumped on a plane, came to LA. It is just that easy. It would not have mattered if I had to travel the world to see Dr. Parker because he gave me my life back. You will be hard pressed to find a kinder, more genuine, more knowledable, more skilled surgeon! I also have to say that his support staff is incredible also. They are so kind and helpful and organized. They made my surgery happen so easily. I am forever grateful to Dr. Parker and his staff. I would not think of going anywhere else. Dr. Parker is simply The Best!!
Dina M.:
I first met Dr. Parker a few years back after I had already been to see about 10 other Gynecologists. The condition which brought me to see him was a large Uterine Fibroid – 13 cm. I had a lot of pain, super heavy periods, and a lot of other unpleasant symptoms including the fact that I looked about 4-5 months pregnant. All the other Doctors I had seen told me that the Fibroid could be removed but that I’d be left with a huge C-Section scar due to the size of the Fibroid. Several of them had even said not to bother with the surgery and just have a Hysterectomy. One told me to shrink it using Lupron. One told me he could remove it using a C-section but only if I signed some papers saying that I might require a blood transfusion, and that he could not guarantee that he could SAVE the Uterus because he might not be able to put the uterus back together again after he removed the Fibroid! When I asked all these other Doctors if Laparoscopy could be done, ALL said NO. One even laughed at my suggestion!
Finally, I met Dr. Parker. He was very calm and patient. He looked at my ultrasound and did a thorough exam and then calmly told me that there were several options but that if and when I wanted to have the Fibroid removed, that he could do it using Laparsocopy. Of course it took me a while to rap my head around it seeing that everyone else had said it could not be done. But, Dr. Parker took his time and explained how it would be done and that I had nothing to worry about. When I was ready to do the surgery I finally booked an appointment and he was able to do what he said he would do. All I have to show for it now are four teeny tiny scars on my belly area. When I tell my female friends they cannot believe it. I have Dr. friends in two other countries who cannot believe that a Dr. was able to do it. One of my friends, a surgeon in Rome, said of Dr. Parker when I showed him the four little holes and told him that he’d taken out only the Fibroid and left my Uterus… “Well, he must be God!” (In Italian of course – “Ma questo e’ Dio.”) Everyone who knew what my belly looked like before cannot believe that a Doctor was able to remove it and keep the Uterus.
Dr. Parker has great bed side manner, he’s so respectful, he gives of his time and doesn’t rush through a visit making you feel like you’re wasting his time. He is very thorough and educates me. I can’t believe how he has changed my life.
I HIGHLY recommend Dr. Parker to any woman who is looking for a Dr/Gynecologist who really cares and listens. To any woman who is scared and needs to find an excellent Surgeon who will look at all the options. To any woman who wants to see if Laparoscopy is an option for their condition. To any woman who is looking for an honest, trustworthy, Doctor. To any woman who is looking for a Doctor who will make them feel like they are really being heard.
The entire Office/Team is so efficient. The Nurses, the Assistants, Administration – everyone makes you feel so welcome. They genuinely care about YOU!
I can’t say enough about Dr. Parker and his whole Team!
DKS – Thailand:
After being diagnosed with a very large uterine fibroid that was causing severe complications and after consulting with three top international specialists, I was referred to Dr. Parker. Previously, three gynecologists had all recommended hysterectomies. Fortunately, I was referred to Dr. Parker by a top gynecologist and was told Dr. Parker is the best – he will be able to address your health condition while respecting your wishes. She was not exaggerating. Dr. Parker is an outstanding and exceptionally caring gynecologist/surgeon and physician. From my first appointment, he took the time to explain to me all of the different options available and listened to my concerns. At a time when every other doctor had told me I would need to have my uterus and fibroid removed, he told me he would be able to remove the large fibroid laparoscopically while leaving my uterus intact – it was what everyone else had told me was impossible. Dr. Parker took the time to walk me through every step of the way in preparation for surgery, answering all of my questions patiently and on the actual day of surgery, he was able to make me feel relaxed, confident, and at ease. The surgery was successful in every way and I am forever grateful to Dr. Parker for giving me my health and quality of life back, and very importantly, for respecting my desire to keep my uterus. I cannot recommend Dr. Parker enough for any woman who finds herself needing a gynecologist and surgeon who will listen to her concerns and still offer the highest quality of surgical care possible. Dr. Parker’s expertise and exceptional skills as a surgeon and his true care for the welfare and wellbeing of his patients are exemplary. I can recommend him wholeheartedly and unconditionally.
Lana – Kuwait:
I had a big fibroid attached to my uterus, and I saw several doctors and they all recommended that I do an open stomach surgery to take it out. They refused doing laparoscopy surgery for some reason. I researched online and found Dr. Parker, I made an appointment with him and Dr. Parker said I don’t have to take it out at this time, but if I would like to he will be able to remove it by a laparoscopy. I choose to remove it so I don’t have to worry about it anymore. Dr. parker sat with me and answered all my questions. I had the procedure done and everything went very smooth. I have very little scaring from this surgery. I can’t describe how comfortable I felt with Dr. parker, he is truly one of the best doctors I have met. I will always recommend anyone to him.
D:
As a 34-year-old woman, hearing your doctor diagnose uterine fibroids and then inform you that your sole option is a hysterectomy, especially when you haven’t yet had children, can leave you feeling rather hopeless. I had what turned out to be a total of five fibroids (four larger ones and one very small one) and thanks to the skill of Dr Parker, they were not only removed successfully without hysterectomy, but he performed the surgery laparoscopically, even after I had been told by my regular doctor that both myomectomy and laparoscopic surgery were an impossibility. I am so grateful that my personal support system agreed with my desire for a second opinion and that careful research by a trusted friend led me to Dr Parker.
As a patient, you could not ask for better care. From first contact with Dr Parker’s office, I felt like I mattered. Any questions or concerns I had were addressed. Each detail was covered. By the time I had my telephone consult with Dr Parker (I live on the opposite side of the country, and yet I was treated like I was sitting right there in his office), my discouragement and fear had been replaced with relief. Dr Parker’s skill and knowledge are not the only benefits of choosing to be under his care. There is warmth, compassion, concern and a reassuring confidence that put me immediately at ease. When that call ended, I knew I had put myself into the best possible hands.
I am seven days post-op and, if anything, I am more certain of my decision to have Dr Parker provide my care. While no one looks forward to surgery, I could not have asked for it to go any better. My surgery was out-patient. My discomfort has been minimal. My care has exceeded anything I could have imagined. What began six months ago as a terrifying ordeal has ended a glowing success. I would urge any woman who has received similarly alarming news in regard to fibroids to contact Dr Parker. So many doctors remain undereducated and unaware of the progress made in this specialty field. Don’t allow a lack of knowledge to determine the outcome when hysterectomy may not the sole option available. Dr Parker is an outstanding physician and a gifted surgeon, and I would recommend him without a single reservation.
Catherine – Los Angeles, California:
Dr. Parker is the most wonderful doctor I’ve ever met. After seeing several doctors who recommended I have a hysterectomy, I found Dr. Parker through his informative website.
During my initial consultation, Dr. Parker was very patient and willing to listen to all of my concerns. He was very knowledgeable and thorough in his explanation of treatment options, including options that didn’t involve him.
After reviewing my MRI, Dr Parker told me he could remove my 9cm fibroid laparscopicaly. I was elated!
Dr. Parker performed a laparoscopic myomectomy to remove 10 fibroids, leaving me with my uterus intact. The nurses at the hospital told me he was world-renowned for his surgical skills. During my recovery, it became apparent that his reputation is well deserved.
It was the most do-able surgery I could have ever imagined. I was back to work in 3 weeks with minimal pain. Dr. Parker was personable, available, and so kind during the whole process.
I feel so lucky to have found him. I only wish we could clone him to help women all over the world who suffer from fibroids. I am forever grateful to Dr. Parker and his wonderful staff.
D. - Los Angeles, California:
Dear Dr. Parker,
I am absolutely humbled by your skill as a physician.
The past two years have caused my wife and I to experience the range of emotions from self pity to anger to hope. We’ve questioned whether children would be a possibility or even if she would survive the last surgery or any future surgeries.
Several physicians opined that we should consider adoption or surrogacy, but face reality that we would not have a chance to create our own children on our terms with God’s blessing.
With many unanswered questions and fear, we came to you. Your insight has been impeccable. Your ability to chart the course up to and through this surgery was nothing short of remarkable and my wife and I are eternally grateful.
As a concerned husband and future father, I thank you, Tammie, Cynthia, Dr. Childs and the St. Johns Team of professionals.
Although we have a little recovery ahead of us, I am hopeful and optimistic about our future as parents.
Thank you.
Michelle – Thousand Oaks, California:
With an enlarged uterus, the size of an eight-month pregnancy, I knew I had to identify a doctor who would not be intimated to perform a myomectomy. After being told numerous times that a myomectomy was not possible I began an extensive research, which led me to Dr. Parker. It was the best decision I have ever made. While preserving my uterus, Dr. Parker successfully removed all of my fibroids, which weighed 7 ½ pounds.
Even though I had what seemed like an impossible situation; Dr. Parker’s wealth of knowledge and calm demeanor rekindled my hope. I knew I was in capable hands. My chronic fear of surgery/hospital was minimized because of his remarkable ability to make one feel relaxed and comfortable.
Prior to surgery, Dr. Parker was attentive, thorough and reassuring. The operation went smoothly without any post-operative pain. I recovered quickly and did not experience the major discomfort anticipated. His gentle bedside manners, sincerity and professional expertise can be any patient’s dream. I am forever grateful
If you are reading my review and your health challenge is fibroid, I highly recommend Dr. Parker. He is also the author of a “gynecologist’s second opinion” which is very informative and provides practical guidelines regarding women’s health-care options.
Victoria – Pasadena, California:
I sought the opinion of Dr. Parker after being told by a radiologist that my fibroids were so severe that I should have a hysterectomy and hire a surrogate to have my baby. During my first consultation, Dr. Parker thoroughly reviewed my MRI, explained the various treatment options available, then confidently told me that he could remove my fibroids thereby preserving my fertility so that I could attempt to have a baby. He explained in great detail what I could expect from surgery and answered all my questions thus setting my mind at ease. He was a partner in to me in my care and was available to me before, during, and after surgery.
My surgery was a success and 18 months later I got pregnant with my son. Dr Parker is thoughtful, insightful, and genuinely cares about the health of his patients. He has remained an advisor to me since my surgery and I value his opinion when it comes to my health. Any woman who is in need of fibroid treatment could not be in better hands.
AS – East Coast:
I am 40 years old and I have no kids. I used to have a fibroid that over the years grew to be 9 cm wide. According to other gyn I had seen before Dr. Parker, there was a good chance I’d lose my uterus in case of a surgery to remove the fibroid, but I disagreed. I got onto the internet and found Dr. Parker’s website fibroidsecondopinion.com. The website educated me on what fibroids are and made me want to go see Dr. Parker (I lived in Los Angeles at the time) and get his opinion on my case. I have to say Dr. Parker is an amazing individual. From my first visit one year ago, I realized he was going to be the only one I’d trust with my fibroid. He took the time to thoroughly explain to me and my husband what a fibroid is, what were my options and what we could do. We decided to wait some, but in the last year the symptoms got worse, so I contacted Dr. Parker again. In the meanwhile I had moved to the East Coast, but I did not find any gyn that gave me as much confidence as Dr. Parker, so I decided to go back to LA to get my surgery done with him. Dr. Parker was unbelievably helpful. He was always available over the email (I would get answers to my questions within hours, literally), and helped me through the whole pre-op procedures long distance. I arrived in Los Angeles a couple of days before the surgery, got my pre-op with him and did the surgery at about 3 pm on a Wed. afternoon. I was out of the hospital at about 10 pm that night. Dr. Parker and his staff were available for any questions or concerns I had in the days after the surgery and did not make me feel unwelcome, ever, even if I called for two days in a row with a different concern I wanted to express (I am far from brave!) This was by far the best care I could possibly imagine, and even more. Thanks Dr. Parker!
Y.L.:
I had my ab myomectomy done by Dr. Parker in August of 2011. He removed 27 fibroids from my uterus and also removed the cyst on my right ovary which was actually an endometriosis. At that time, my uterus was about 5 month pregnancy and the biggest fibroid was about 7cm. Now I am healing well and ready to go back to work. I heard about Dr. Parker on Yahoo Uterine Fibroid Group. He is recommended by the people in the group and some of them were his clients before.
I was diagnosed with fibroids and a right ovary cyst in Jan, 2010. I have been trying conservative approach of Chinese herbs and QiGong for a year and a half. However, I didn’t see obvious improvement. Then I heard about MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound(MRgFUS) or called High Intensive Fucosed Ultrasound (HIFU). It appealed to me because it is noninvasive. I went on a MRgFUS in May, 2011. The outcome was disappointing. MRgFUS only treated 4 of my fibroids and the successful killing rate of the 4 fibroids varied from 33% to 60% due to the time constraints or the high intensity of the fibroids. Apparently MRgFUS was not suitable for my case. I wish I had known this earlier instead of wasting a lot of money on MRgFUS.
Then I met with Dr. Parker for a consultation. Before the consultation, I had wished for a minimal invasive surgery. But Dr. Parker looked my MRI and because I want to have kids soon, he recommended open ab myomectomy. The rest was smooth. The surgery went well. He checked in on me each morning after the surgery to make sure I was OK. During the whole process, Dr Parker was patient and was explaining to me and my husband details of each options and risks of surgery, etc. He listened to our needs and concerns and answered our questions with scientific data. He never dismissed our question or rushed us like other doctors. I would recommend Dr. Parker to persons whoever needs a doctor for their fibroids.
Perla – Saudi Arabia:
I was diagnosed with severe anemia (Hemoglobin 5.6). Investigating the causes of the anemia, it was discovered that I had a uterine fibroid. My gynecologist recommended making surgery the next week. I refused surgery, my anemia was responding to iron treatment, and at that time, the fibroid was not giving me any important symptoms. I did agree to receive an injection to reduce the influence of hormones and help stop the growing of the fibroid. It was too much for me, I was so upset with the side effects of that injection ( Zoladex) that I never come back to see that Dr.
I read several books and found several pages in the internet, the best and more complete was www.fibroidsecondopinion.com by the well recognized Dr. William Parker in Santa Monica, California. The fibroid was growing, my symptoms were getting worse and the iron treatment was not being effective to keep my hemoglobin in normal levels. My health was quickly deteriorating; the fibroid was degenerating and starting to produce episodes of severe pain that send me to emergency room a couple of times. I realized that at that point, surgery was a reasonable option.
My husband was very supportive to provide for whatever alternative I decided. Since I live so far away from Santa Monica, I was afraid to make the long trip; it comforted me to know that woman travel from the all parts of the World to be treated by Dr Parker.
I visited a Dr, considered the best surgeon in the best local hospital here in Al Khobar. The only alternative offered to me locally was an Abdominal Myomectomy (remove the fibroid thru an abdominal incision similar to c-section) with risk of Hysterectomy.
After I made an MRI, I email Dr. Parker for the first time and ask for a telephone consultation. I send him by Fedex the CD containing the MRI, a few days later we have a telephone consultation where he explained to me the best alternatives for my case. He answers all my questions. He told me that based in my condition; it was possible to make a laparoscopic myomectomy, a surgery that will allow me to leave the hospital the same day and to have a fast recovery. My only concern was that in a laparoscopic myomectomy required in general anesthesia, which scare me.
On July 8th I arrived to Los Angeles after 32 hours trip from my house in Saudi Arabia. I meet Dr Parker, he talk to me as if he knew me from a long time, he made the examination and then we talk in his office. I did have question about anesthesia and how I will feel after surgery and when my symptoms will improve. He told me that even so I decided for abdominal myomectomy, I will be under sedation so I will not be aware of what is going on. I thought that if that was the case, it was ok with me go under general anesthesia and received the benefits of the laparoscopic surgery.
The next Monday, I went to Saint John Health Center in Santa Monica. Saint John’s is a modern and nice hospital. In pre-operation, three friendly nurses, helping me to change my clothing, put on a kind of snuggy with warm air, and a nurse put in the IV. Then came Dr. Parker, he was dressed as the surgeon in the movies, he was smiling and very confident as always. The anesthesiologist, a nice looking young lady, also came. Dr. Parker told her that I was afraid of the anesthesia. I ask her to never let me know that she was going to put me to sleep; she told me “I don’t have to, I will give you something that you will like it”.
After my laparoscopic myomectomy, my husband Todd told me everything was fine, he told me that the Dr. Parker showed him some amazing pictures of the surgery and confirmed that the surgery went good as expected. I did not experience pain, the nurse promptly give me a painkiller as soon I express the least discomfort. The nurse told me that Dr. Parker also helped her with her endometriosis problem, that he is the best gynecologist she knew that that he wrote a book call A Gynecologist’s Second Opinion.
At 3:00 pm, I arrived to the apartment we were rented a few streets from the Hospital. I was able to walk and go up the stairs, but my husband help me to go out the car. I started to feel tired and very dizzy from the painkillers. The next morning I awake feeling very good, just a little tired. I even email Dr. Parker to tell him how great I was feeling and how blessed I was to found him and order his book online. Dr. Parker call me in the morning, he told me that do not over-do even so I feel great. I followed his recommendation and rest most of that day. I keep receiving calls from his office to check in my progress the next days.
Friday morning I was able to walk in the shopping mall. Saturday, I was feeling a little uncomfortable for the gases. My husband found in internet that drinking hot tea with lemon helps with the symptoms of gases after a laparoscopic surgery, I drink some, and the next day I feel much better. The Monday, I was complete fine. That afternoon, I visit Dr. Parker; he removed the tapes that cover the incisions to reveal four small incisions, two like 0.5 cm, and one to the right like 1cm long, the fourth in the belly button that does not show at all. They are so small and insignificant that does not deserve further comments. He gave me a set of nice pictures showing the process of the surgery, also I ask him to sign my copy of his book, I save it as a treasure.
I come back to Saudi Arabia two days later, exactly 10 days after the surgery. I am happy all is over, and I am already feel complete recover. If I knew, one year ago, how I am feeling today, I would made the surgery as soon my fibroid was discovered and save all that suffering. I will not doubt to travel to Santa Monica if I have a new health condition. It is such a blessing to have Dr. William Parker.
Paula – Bishop, California:
Dr Parker was very professional and gave me confidence in his abilities and his knowledge of the latest surgical techniques. He was easy to talk to, explained all the options thoroughly and didn’t rush me for any decisions. Emails were answered quickly and when I decided on surgery, everything was comprehensively explained to me. The surgery went very well, pain management was excellent and recovery was swift and without problem. I’m glad I made the effort to travel the 500 miles round trip to see him.
Heather – New Orleans, Louisiana:
I appreciate that Dr. Parker took a careful but not alarmist approach in diagnosing and ultimately surgically removing my uterine fibroids. After an ultrasound revealed at least one large fibroid that was causing me some but not great discomfort, he talked me through pros and cons and ultimately advised a watchful waiting approach. He shared relevant, current research with me, and, as a researcher myself, I appreciated that he didn’t place undue weight on individual statistics and clearly explained what the research did and didn’t establish. When a subsequent MRI revealed more detailed information than the ultrasound about the size and locations of several fibroids, Dr. Parker modified his recommendation, and I chose to have an endoscopic myomectomy. The surgery was completely successful, the care I received at the hospital was excellent, and recovery took the predicted time of approximately 5 days. Given where the fibroids were in my uterus, it looks likely that their removal will help my chances of getting pregnant, which I hope to try for in this coming year. I really appreciated Dr. Parker’s friendly professionalism and his competence. It’s nice to really trust your doctor!
S.Q. – Los Angeles, California:
When I was first diagnosed with fibroids, the doctor said to me: “you have fibroids, the recommended treatment is a hysterectomy and I can do it Friday.” I think it was a Tuesday then. At the time I was speechless; later, I was furious! How dare a doctor be so cavalier about such a radical surgery?
I researched fibroids, found out they are rarely cancerous and since I didn’t have any symptoms, I decided to do nothing. Years passed and my fibroids grew.
I found Dr. William Parker in a roundabout way; read his book and finally made an appointment. My first visit was unhurried and informative. I was really excited that Dr. Parker might be able to do a laparoscopic myomectomy. When he told me I wasn’t a candidate, I was disappointed. However, I wanted this huge fibroid out of me, so I decided on surgery, an abdominal myomectomy.
Since this was my first surgery, my biggest fear was the post operative pain. Dr. Parker was patient and reassuring while he explained how the On-Q Pump worked, how the pain would be less than what I imagined (friends helped me imagine horrible pain). Dr. Parker took out one HUGE fibroid (18 cm+) and a couple little ones weighing a total of 5.4 lbs!
Now, I’m seven weeks post surgery and I can honestly say I never had pain; I was sore, but nothing more. At the hospital, nurses kept asking me, “On a scale from 1 to 10, what’s your pain level?” I always answered “1,” even a few hours after surgery. The On-Q Pump is the greatest invention!
I went back to work less than two weeks after surgery. Co-workers couldn’t believe how great I looked; especially after they saw the pictures Dr. Parker took during the surgery!
I highly recommend Dr. William Parker to anyone who is living with fibroids and thinking about surgery. I believe that when it comes to your health, you must go with the best, the most highly skilled, the doctor who is not afraid to answer your questions fully and honestly–and that’s Dr. Parker.
I am in his debt. I’m ready to start exercising again and I feel great! I’m looking forward getting a six-pack and shopping for new clothes! My only regret is that I didn’t find Dr. Parker earlier.
Thank you Dr. Parker!
Mary – Valencia, California:
When it comes to my health, I want the best care possible. And as a recent breast cancer survivor, I’ve learned that I need to be pro-active in choosing my course of medical care. So when it came to the various choices I had regarding the removal of my ovarian cyst, I found the best care was placing myself in the hands of Dr. Parker. His clinical expertise, matched with his patient-friendly manner, made my decision effortless. Dr. Parker has the ability to explain the complex in simple terms and is sincerely concerned for my long-term health and well-being. His staff takes that extra step to make you feel comfortable the moment you walk through the door. I only wish that I could have Dr. Parker attend to all my medical needs! He truly is one of the BEST!
Barbara – Beverly Hills, California:
Before I found Dr. Parker, I was a patient of one of the most well known female gynecologists in Beverly Hills. She told me I had but a few options, and recommended that I just ‘leave them there, they’ll shrink when you go through menopause.” But the constant UTI’s and pain were just too uncomfortable, and when I pushed her for relief, and to tell me all the options, she offered only the services she provided, including hysterectomy.
I was conflicted, the pain was bad, but were these really the only choices? I couldn’t believe in this day and age that there wasn’t a better weapon against fibroids.
After a few minutes of Internet research, I found Dr. Parker and his breakthrough laproscopic myomectomy. Being the daughter of an obgyn, I researched him and his record. I was impressed, and stunned, why hadn’t my own obgyn told me about this option? When I called her, she simply said, ‘well, I don’t perform that surgery”
So I’m now on a mission to let every woman know about Dr. Parker’s breakthrough surgical techniques. Because of him, the fibroids are out, my parts are intact, and the quality of my life has drastically improved.
I want to thank Dr. Parker for his care and concern about women and that he advanced treatment with this procedure. Not only is he a brilliant surgeon, but he also has a gift to be able to communicate in easy to understand terms. And I’m proud to say that he’s now my doctor.
E.T. – Canada:
When my 12cm fibroid became symptomatic with heavy and lengthy menstrual bleeding, I consulted six of the top gynecologists in Canada (three in Vancouver and three in Toronto). Without exception, each of them stated that my fibroid could not be removed successfully and that my only surgical option was a hysterectomy. I wanted to keep my uterus intact and was devestated by this diagnosis.
Somehow I found the courage to persevere. I refused to accept a hysterectomy as inevitable and decided to look to the U.S. for further gynecological expertise. I was referred to Dr. Parker and my husband and I flew down from Vancouver for a consultation with him. We were very nervous. Dr. Parker met with us, examined me, and reviewed all of my medical reports and images. In all of the many appointments with gynecologists, he was the only one who bothered to take the time to show us the MRI images and explain clearly and in detail exactly what the images revealed. He discussed all of the available treatment options and the advantages and disadvantages of each course of action. He took his time, thoroughly answering all of our questions and, believe me, we had a lot of questions! Contrary to what I had been told, he assured me that there was no reason why the fibroid could not be removed by a myomectomy. He was right. I had an abdominal myomectomy in September 2008 and I am now fibroid-free.
I can’t express the extent of my gratitude to Dr. Parker or say enough good things about him. He is an exceptional physician. Not only is he a highly competent and skilled surgeon with tremendous expertise, he is also attentive, empathetic, and considerate. I always felt that I was getting the best of care with Dr. Parker. I would recommend him strongly and without the slightest hestitation. I only wish I could find a gynecologist of his calibre in Canada.
Kim – Los Angeles, California:
I have been a patient of Dr. Parker for more than 20 years. During that time, I underwent several surgeries for treatment of fibroids. All were very successful, and left me feeling healthier and stronger than before. In each case, Dr. Parker always presented me with every conceivable treatment option, of which surgery was only one. He never failed to demonstrate patience and concern as I went throught the decision making process. I have the utmost confidence in both his judgment and his ability as a surgeon and will always be grateful for his exceptional care.
Michele – Durango, Colorado:
I was told that I had a gigantic 20 cm fibroid! The gynecologist in Colorado that I went to told me that I would need to have a hysterectomy. I was devastated! I had a second opinion and was told that there must be a surgeon who could help me but it would not be in the small town of Durango, CO. So we started doing lots of research to find someone talented and experienced with removing large fibroids. I was fortunate enough to find Dr. Parker who eased my mind and assured me that my fibroid could be removed safely with a bikini incision and with keeping all of my organs in tact. I was thrilled!
I immediately felt at ease once I sat in Dr. Parker’s office and I knew that I had made the right decision to fly out to CA and have the surgery with him. Dr. Parker and his staff are warm, friendly and very skilled at what they do. The surgery went extremely well. It was shorter than they had anticipated and there was very minimal blood loss. The fibroid weighed 5 pounds! I am so grateful to Dr. Parker! Dr. Parker kept in contact with me through the healing process to make sure that I was doing well. His kind manner and extremely talented skills will never be forgotten. Now a year later I am healthy, very active and running my own dance program for toddlers! I feel like I have my life back. Thank you Dr. Parker!
Kate – Los Angeles, California:
My experience with Dr. Bill Parker was nothing less than extra-ordinary. I approach all aspects of my life from a very natural, holistic approach. I found Dr. Bill to be incredibly open and receptive to all of the outside work I was doing in terms of shrinking my fibroid, and although there was definitely evidence of progress, I really appreciated going forward with my laparoscopic surgery. His care and respect for the feminine systems are refreshingly authentic, resonate, and grace-filled. I absolutely could not have chosen a better doctor to take care of my special needs, and I am so very grateful for my experience.
FM – Kauai, Hawaii:
Aloha,
I wanted to share with you the name of a physician who has made such a difference in my life, Dr. William Parker.
I was diagnosed with fibroids back in 2004. My fibroids were asymptomatic and treatment was not recommended.
Growth was monitored with annual sonograms. In 2008 a period of rapid growth occurred and I started having symptoms. A hysterectomy was recommended. Books were read. Holistic treatments were sought. Second opinions were obtained. At the time I wanted to avoid a hysterectomy at all costs. I looked into alternative types of treatments that would allow the removal of the fibroids only and leave my uterus intact. During this quest for the best solution for my situation my husband discovered Dr. William Parker. Keep in mind that we live on a remote Hawaiian island and Dr. Parker is on the west coast. Traveling across the ocean just to get a consultation was cost prohibitive to say the least! However, Dr. Parker was willing to review my medical files and consult with me via telephone and e-mail (other mainland physicians refused this level of service and quickly eliminated themselves from being my physician). I was immediately impressed with Dr. Parker’s professionalism and compassion. His staff was also courteous and helpful. Only you can determine the best course of action for your fibroid treatment. However, I implore you to meet with Dr. Parker prior to making any final choices. He is an expert in the field and very knowledgeable of all the options for fibroid treatment. I am grateful to him for the care I received and recommend him wholeheartedly and without reservation.
Lindsay – New Jersey:
Choosing the right doctor is very important while at the same time can be very difficult. Be wise and make sure the doctor you choose is able to provide you with the care and attention you need. At 33 I learned the hard way, for me choosing the wrong doctor ended up with an additional surgery, and the removal of my right ovary, my appendix and lymph. This was very painful, not only physically but mentally and emotionally.
Unfortunately at 35 my problem reoccurred but… I was very fortunate to have been referred to Dr. William Parker. I consider myself extremely lucky to have been a patient of Dr. Parker’s. Not only did he give me the best doctor/patient care I have ever received, he was able to disarm all of my fears and anger I was carrying around from my prior experience. He understood I needed immediate care and fit me right into his busy schedule. And I am very grateful and happy to say that he saved my left (only) ovary with his expert surgical skills. Dr. Parker even diagnosed me with a rare bleeding disorder that I didn’t know I had. With that alone I consider him a life saver.
Dr. Parker has always been available to me and has always answered all of my questions with a comforting manor. And with that said, I am happy to be available to anyone who is looking for the right doctor. If you have any questions about Dr. Parker and want to hear first-hand how he is the best choice I have ever made. Feel free to email me and I will be happy to elaborate on how he always maintained his attentive care for me, right from the start with my initial consultation through to this day, five years later (even though I have moved 3,000 miles away), Dr. Parker still answers my emails and hands down he is the BEST doctor I have ever had!
Thank you Dr. Parker for giving me the best care I have ever had. It changed my life and I have thankfully been healthy ever since.
K.K. – Modesto, California:
I had been experiencing irregular bleeding for 3 months and eventually went to my gynecologist, a respected ob/gyn in the Central Valley of California. After examination and ultrasound, he told me that I had a large fibroid which was causing the bleeding and that the only option was hysterectomy. I scheduled the hysterectomy. Several weeks before surgery, I was doing some online research about fibroids and stumbled upon Dr. Parker’s thorough website.
I showed my father, a surgeon, Dr. Parker’s website, and he encouraged me to fly down to see him. It seemed such a bother, but I trust my father. So off I flew to Southern California without much hope. Instead, I found a wonderful, patient, caring surgeon who performed various tests all within the several hours of my appointment. At the end of the two hours, he sat me down in his office, drew some simple graphs on paper, and showed me that not only were my fibroids not causing the irregular bleeding, but I certainly didn’t need hysterectomy! The bleeding was caused by hormone fluctuations (I’m 47 years old), not the fibroids. He put me on a low dose continuous birth control pill for the bleeding and I’ve been perfectly fine since.
At my recent check-up, Dr. Parker told me that my fibroids hadn’t grown and I was perfectly healthy. I’ll remain on the pill through menopause and probably never have to undergo any gynecologic surgery whatsoever. I can’t tell you how relieved I’ve been since finding Dr. Parker. Instead of radical surgery to remove all my reproductive organs, I’m healthy and happy with everything intact. How thankful I am for Dr. Parker’s intelligence, extensive research, and skill as a surgeon…to know when to perform surgery and when it’s completely unnecessary!
V.S. – Los Angeles, California:
I’ve never undergone any sort of surgery before and the thought of having to go through an open stomach surgery to remove a 3cm fibroid in my uterus was more frightening to me than learning that I have a fibroid I never knew about. With an ultrasound I was diagnosed with this fibroid about 6 months ago by one of the top fertility doctors in L.A. who also advised me to have the abdominal myomectomy first in order to increase my fertility. Because this surgery sounded extreme to me I needed a second opinion.
Fortunately, I didn’t have to search too hard to find Dr. Parker, he was referred by a friend. When I went to his website I was amazed at how much information there is in great detail about fibroids and the different levels of treatment available.
What’s mind-boggling is that the other fertility doctor didn’t even bother to discuss other options. At the time I didn’t ask all the right questions, but he could’ve easily mentioned other options. In fact, he was quick to point out his next available date for the surgery.
Dr. Parker’s website answered all my questions and concerns. When we finally met, not only was he very easy to talk with, he was especially compassionate, thoughtful and thorough throughout his examination and process. I was relieved when he confirmed that I didn’t need to undergo an abdominal myomectomy. Instead, he advised that a hysteroscopic surgery, a much less invasive procedure, was appropriate for my situation. He even suggested doing an MRI for a more accurate reading of the fibroid. When I did the MRI, Dr. Parker found another smaller fibroid, however that didn’t change the level of surgery I needed fortunately. I had the surgery about 2 months ago and am now fibroid free and looking forward to family planning.
My whole experience with Dr. Parker was simply OUTSTANDING! Look no further.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH, Dr. Parker! I’m forever grateful.
NR:
I feel the one of the most important attributes in a doctor, in addition to skill and professionalism, is the compassion in taking time to understand the wants and needs of a patient as a person, even if those wants aren’t ideal, at least there’s a certainty that the doctor is listening. Having never reared a child before, when I found out I had a fibroid and should have my uterus removed at the age of twenty seven I was thrown in a psychological, physical and emotional warfare between what I wanted and would possibly never have. After seeing many doctors, who were adamant there was no other option besides a hysterectomy, I continued to seek alternative opinions. Without fail several opinions later I was left with the same outcome. They had to get out the fibroid with my uterus and they had to get it out quick!
One doctor even gave me a minute to decide whether I wanted to have the fibroid shrunk or have a hysterectomy the same week I just found out about the fibroid. Imagine having one minute to make a choice that will change the rest of your entire life. Thanks for the minute, doc! I disagreed to have surgery and opted for the lupron depot shots to shrink it, which I stopped in three months because I found (whether accurate or not I did not investigate) that it could make one sterile and this defeated the entire purpose of saving my uterus. Another time a nurse even encouraged that I’d be ok with a hysterectomy since she got hers out too. She was in her late forties, early fifties. She must have been told it’d save her the hassle of future problems. I don’t know. What I do know is that everyone seemed to care what they thought I needed and not once asked me what I wanted or if I was even comfortable with the idea.—as if the choice was easy.
Naturally it would seem I was dodging the inevitable. And in a sense I was but not for the reasons everyone thought. I wasn’t afraid. I empowered myself by the extensive research and knowledge I gained about my condition and doctors who performed surgeries for my condition. Something inside of me said this was right to question their quick opinions, because assuming a hysterectomy was the only possibility for me (since my fibroid was so large it filled the entire cavity of my belly I appeared 6 months pregnant) was just that—an assumption, which wasn’t acceptable to me.
Some doctors and people will try to invoke fear that causes you to make rash decisions. But I say it’s your body and you have the right to know ALL there is to know about your condition. This is your right. No one could offer me this right or even seem to care, just that the surgery needed to be done. But I did have the right! It was after all my body they were going to cut open. It was my life on the table. I stopped for a moment to collect myself. I refused their hasty reactions. Luckily my fibroid hadn’t caused me any severe pain or bleeding in the five years it metastasized, thus giving me the luxury of researching and choosing who I wanted to perform this delicate surgery. But time was of the essence.
I grew exhausted from my constant research. It seemed I was down to my last straw when I found Dr. Parker’s website. I’ll admit I overlooked his website once because the procedure didn’t seem to fit my condition, but I was looking at the wrong one. The more I browsed his site, I found Dr. Parker to be skilled in an array of surgical procedures for fibroids of the uterus. Immediately what drew me was that he seemed to have such empathy for the patient, a sincere compassion, and I didn’t feel force fed some myth about my condition or pressure of what had to be done just because he was qualified to do so. These things I not only desired but desperately needed in a doctor who valued a “second opinion” (which coincidentally is the title of his book; he was actually my fourth or fifth opinion, but nevertheless I’ve made my point). I wanted to know more.
I emailed him right away. After sympathizing with much of my concerns, he concluded he could not agree nor disagree with the other doctors’ options that lay before me at the time without the proper medical tests (which I found astonishing since these tests were not offered to me when others doctors were quick to decided a hysterectomy was best n the first place). This made me more confident in Dr. Parker and he officially gained my trust as I knew he would not proceed with the surgery unless he was absolutely certain about everything: especially about me. This is not to say these other doctors didn’t care, but that upon meeting Dr. Parker it was evident he was determined to get it right and rightly informed me of ALL options: where my fibroid was located in connection to my uterus, what the proper procedure would be, how I felt personally, answered any questions my my mother had and so forth. His sensitivity to my situation made me comfortable and ready for anything–even if it so happened I needed a hysterectomy–I trusted him wholly with my body.
Trust is key–especially in a doctor-patient relationship–and Dr. Parker earned my trust with his compassion to recognize how essential it was for me to know all aspects of my condition and what would happen pre and post surgery. I want to say that I was lucky. Most aren’t when it comes to getting what they want. My fibroid was pedunculated, stalk type (meaning it hung just off the skin of my uterus). This meant the uterus could go undamaged once the fibroid was removed. I was elated. My concerns were finally then quelled about having an unnecessary hysterectomy. However it could have been cancerous and Dr. Parker had to confirm this before proceeding. He took tremendous steps in making sure I got the proper test with the proper results to see to it that everything necessary was in place to go forth. He didn’t want me to be surprised if I ended up having a hysterectomy (to which he made certain he would wake me if it was the case and ask me personally). He made me feel absolutely carefree and I was unafraid. Afterward, he was very attentive to see that I made it through the surgery well and was good enough to go home in four days. We kept in constant communication after I returned home until my final visit where I was released to go back to work.
I must say what a difference it makes when you can put 100% trust in a doctor. For me this person is Dr. Parker. He is a breath of fresh air. He truly is someone I would vouch for regardless of how you think the outcome is going to be. It really is genuinely important that the doctor’s hands you put your life in is on your side and has your interest at heart. Dr. Parker had my interest at heart. And I highly recommend him for consult on second, third, fourth or fifth opinion even. Thank you, Dr. Parker and his staff, who were incredibly reflective of his kind attitude and persona, which made for an equally satisfying experience. To all potential patients seeking this type of surgery, removal of fibroid, uterus and the like—empower yourself through knowledge and education and don’t be afraid to ask questions—email Dr. Parker!
Jackie – Los Angeles, California:
This letter comes with deep appreciation for Dr. Parker. He is named as the best in his field for many reasons! I suffered from a large fibroid approx 13cm and interviewed with several of the leading surgeons in Los Angeles. Dr. Parker hands down has the most experience and for me I found him to be the most compassionate. I never once felt as though he was in a rush, he thoroughly answered all of my questions which essentially helped me to overcome the fear of having a laparoscopic myomectomy. Gone are the days were you need the bikini cut, the laparoscopic technique carries a faster recovery time and less scarring. I wrestled with trying to make a decision between laparoscopic myomectomy with Dr. Parker and the new approach of Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) with another leading doctor in the field. UFE is a procedure whereby a long tube called a catheter delivers small, microscopic beads that block the fibroids’ blood supply, causing it to dissolve/decay. I decided against UFE after doing extensive research on potential side effects for those with large fibroids–ie. surgery is usually required at some point in the future to remove the decayed fibroid as it becomes a mass of scar tissue.
On the day of surgery, Dr. Parker greeted my mother (who flew in for support) with such kindness. Post surgery he visited me in the hospital first thing in the following morning and called me the day after that to see how I was feeling. In addition to prescribing pain medications, he also provides a list of holistic remedies to help speed recovery time and lessen pain naturally. I appreciated his insight in combining Western with alternative medicine. He also has a very caring and efficient team that work in his office, and made sure that all of my needs were met.
My best advice to anyone suffering from fibroids is to take your time and research who is the most experienced in the field, you will come to find that Dr. Parker is in a league of his own.
Y. – Encinitas, California:
My fibroids had grown over the years and my quality of life was getting worse due to the negative symptoms I was experiencing: heavy menstrual bleeding and consequently became anemic, rectal pressure, pain, and frequent urination. My uterus was so enlarged due to the number, size, and location of my fibroids. That’s when I realized something needed to be done. I was very skeptical about the recommendations from the doctors I had seen. Two gynecologists suggested a hysterectomy to solve my problems. I was devastated and refused to go with the treatment. However, I was determined to find an experienced surgeon so I did my own research until one day I stumbled upon Dr. Parker’s website where a tremendous amount of information was available that I could actually understand. I also read his book “A Gynecologist’s Second Opinion” and became more informed. I met with Dr. Parker and was very impressed with his knowledge, compassion, and friendliness. During our consultation, he listened carefully to my story and took the time to explain and answer my questions thoroughly. I felt confident and secure after talking to him about my condition. Dr. Parker is genuinely interested and cares about his patients. Without any hesitation, I chose him to perform my abdominal myomectomy operation and he removed 17 fibroids in one and a half hours. My ovaries and uterus remain intact. I was amazed to see myself walking the very next day after the surgery. I felt so relieved knowing that my fibroids were all gone! It was like a new energy was flowing in my body. After 4 weeks, I was active again. My quick recovery as well as the successful result prove that Dr. Parker is an extremely skilled surgeon. Today, my quality of life has improved tremendously. I truly admire Dr. Parker and thank God for people like him that have the commitment and passion he brings to the medical profession. Dr. Parker holds a special place in my heart. I will never forget him…
Suzie – Phoenix, Arizona:
With a huge and fast growing fibroid that enlarged my uterus to a size of 22-week pregnancy, the increasingly severe bulk symptoms affected significantly the quality of my life, mentally and physically alike. Of all the specialists I consulted with, most of them recommended hysterectomy. Only a couple of them offered myomectomy, yet they couldn’t tell me the likelihood of a successful surgery. They did all agree that vertical incision was the only incision type for me.
Fortunately, I found Dr. Parker through Yahoo Uterine Fibroids Group, where he is highly recommended by other patients. As a result, not only did Dr. Parker perform a successful myomectomy on me, but he did it with a bikini-line incision to enable faster healing – which NONE of the other 9 doctors I consulted with thought was possible!
I can’t thank Dr. Parker enough for fixing my problem. Also, I’d like to thank him and his team for maintaining an informative website, as well as for writing up the very educational book, “A Gynecologist’s Second Opinion”. I learned and benefited greatly from reading these materials in the long quest for treatment options. I am glad to know that this book has been translated into different languages to help women abroad as well.
After suffering for more than 1 year, I truly appreciate a doctor who respects my wishes and, most importantly, is capable of providing a treatment option I need.”
Gwen:
By the time I met Dr. Parker, I was a wreck. The first doctor I saw after finding a mass in my abdomen ran some tests and told me he was confident it was a uterine fibroid (to my extreme relief and with resulting celebration) and referred me to a gynecological oncologist to confirm it. The oncologist, however, told me that she was concerned that my “fibroid” was in fact a cancerous tumor called a sarcoma and that there was no way to confirm this prior to surgery. She told me that I’d have to have a hysterectomy via a vertical incision (and that a myomectomy was out of the question, even if the tumor was not cancerous, as it was a very bloody surgery and my tumor was so large there would be nothing left of my uterus. I then spoke to two of the best gynecological oncologists in the country. Both also recommended hysterectomy and consideration of the removal of my ovaries as well, and both said that there was no good way to determine if the tumor was cancerous or not prior to surgery. My initial consultations with these doctors felt too rushed and harried (and in two cases repeatedly interrupted by staff) to really address my concerns. I felt the incredible time pressure that these doctors were under. And I felt under incredible pressure myself, having to make decisions that would affect my sexual functioning, my health, my life, and needing to do so as soon as possible. I desperately did not want a hysterectomy but was told there was no other option.
A few days before my surgery was scheduled, my boyfriend found Dr. Parker’s website and called and got me an appointment. I expected another rushed and interrupted 15 minute conversation. Instead, Dr. Parker spoke with me for over an hour. He was so kind, knowledgeable and compassionate that for the first time I felt I had a physician who was truly an ally. He reviewed on his computer with me the scan results and explained what he saw and what his surgical approach would be. Dr. Parker answered all my questions and gave me time to think about my options. In addition, he told me about a test that could determine if the tumor was a sarcoma or not. I had this test done, and when the results came back negative, scheduled a myomectomy with Dr. Parker.
In surgery four fibroids were removed, with a large tumor mass (one football-sized, one softball sized, one “plum” and one “grape.”) I did not need a vertical incision and I lost very little blood. I did not need a hysterectomy. The pathology report showed no sign of cancer. My recovery was uneventful and today I feel great.
It is difficult for me to put into words how very grateful I am that Dr. Parker took the time to explain everything to me, and that he saved my uterus. I am involved in medical research, and I believe that Dr. Parker’s approach will be the standard approach…in about 15 years, when everyone else catches up. For those women out there who may be reading this, I want to acknowledge your courage in getting this far and considering your options when you have likely been told, perhaps even by more than one doctor, that you need a hysterectomy. It’s not frivolous or silly to want to keep your sexual organs. If an otherwise healthy organ can be repaired instead of removed..why wouldn’t it be?
Naomi Y. – Santa Monica, California:
I have been a patient of Dr. Parker’s since 2004. I had been spotting on and off for an entire year. During that year I saw two other doctors to help decipher why my body was doing this. I had many exams, two ultrasounds and even an endometrial biopsy. No one could tell me what was going on. In fact I was told everything looked good and it was just some ‘breakthrough’ bleeding. I was confused. On the referral of a friend who assured me I was not crazy and constantly spotting was not normal, I made an appointment with Dr. Parker. During my initial exam he immediately saw and solved the mystery. I had a large uterine polyp. He took the time to carefully explain to me in his office what this meant, how it caused the spotting and used diagrams to illustrate how it could all be remedied with a hysteroscopic surgery (removal of the polyp with a small telescope). Dr. Parker addressed all my curiosities and concerns while reassuring me this was easily resolvable. It was exciting to finally have answers and solid knowledgeable direction. The entire surgical experience (including recovery) was smooth, just as he said it would be. I have been touting Dr. Parker’s compassionate expertise around town ever since.
This year during my routine pap smear, another polyp was discovered. Due to my newest polyp’s location and size, it was able to be removed during an in-office procedure. Although, I was not the most brave patient, once again I felt at completely at ease in Dr. Parker’s care, he made the experience as pleasant and efficient as possible. I left his office happy I was again polyp free and tremendously grateful for the consistent high level of care I receive from him and his entire staff.
I am appreciative for all that Dr. Parker has helped me with and that he has chosen to share his knowledgeable skills and talent with his patients, fellow colleagues and the medical field in general. However, beyond his immense expertise lies a gentleman with compassion and a genuine willingness to help and heal – and that truly makes all the difference.
Leslie – California:
I am a 53 yr old woman in excellent physical shape with a long history of fibroids. My fibroids were uncomfortable and made my stomach distend quite a bit on my very small frame. After being to many gynecologists to discuss my fibroids, the overall conclusion was to wait until menopause and they would shrink. I was so uncomfortable that I finally decided to let my gynecologist perform an abdominal supra-cervical hysterectomy. Every doctor including my own said that my fibroids were too large to remove laparoscopically. My brother-in-law is a top anesthesiologist in Denver and kept telling me that he sees and performs anesthesia on many cases like mine and I needed to find the right doctor. I cancelled my surgery and googled “best laparoscopic doctor in Los Angeles”. That is where I was fortunate to have found Dr .Parker. I had a laparoscopic supra-cervical hysterectomy 10 days ago and a very successful surgery. If you are looking for the BEST doctor and surgeon, you have now found him!!!!
Marydawn – Ft Myers, Florida:
I feel so blessed and very grateful for the extreme skill and wisdom of Dr. Parker. I was diagnosed with large uterine fibroids in 2005, and as my career took me from PA, to NJ, to NY, to NM and then to CA, I met with 8 gynecologists across all of these States. Each and every one of them immediately said “hysterectomy.” I continued my research, and I found Dr Parker’s book “A Gynecologist’ s Second Opinion.” I consulted with Dr Parker over a three year time period; my symptoms were uncomfortable but not debilitating, so I continued to “wait” for the fibroids to shrink. Dr Parker discussed all options with me, and I was so impressed with the time he took to explain my MRI results and explain the myomectomy approach. At age 49, the watchful waiting was not working, and largest of multiple fibroids had grown to 13 cm, with bladder pressure and severe belly extension. I looked like I was 6-7 months pregnant. I now live in Florida, but I developed such confidence in Dr Parker, that I was very willing to be a medical tourist in my own country , and travel from FL to CA for the surgery. I was thrilled that Dr Parker was willing to do a laparoscopic myomectomy, despite the size of the fibroids, because this is a time consuming procedure for a surgeon; but it was an excellent choice for me, the patient! I am 5 weeks post-op today, and I am so pleased with the outcome and results!! Like many of the other patients who left comments, I had immediate relief after the surgery; my recovery process tracked exactly the way Dr Parker explained it would be. Today I have fibroid symptom relief, tons of energy, can get back into normal–size clothes, and my uterus and ovaries are intact!! I want to express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Parker and his staff. I encourage women to challenge the “hysterectomy” response and meet with Dr Parker.
Ava:
What can I say about Dr. William Parker, he is the best! I was first diagnosed with fibroids around 2004. I was told by my gynecologist at the time that I had an enlarged uterus and need to go for an ultrasound. I was then diagnosed with fibroids. I like many women I had never even heard of fibroids and had no clue what they were. My doctor didn’t seem too worried and said they shrink at menopause so I didn’t know what to think she was the doctor. I didn’t have any symptoms other than an enlarged abdomen. Well, my fibroids continued to grow and in 2006 the largest one was 9cm and when I laid down flat it popped up like a baseball under my skin and I seemed to be having increased pressure on my bladder. Needless to say I was freaked out, scared and wondered what to do. Of course the doctor and others doctors I saw offered (2) options: wait till menopause or hysterectomy. I did not want to do either! It was affecting my life and it was all I could think about. I felt like there had to be some solution somewhere out there, that there had to be a doctor that could do something with doing a hysterectomy!
I was constantly on the web doing research and trying to find some answers when I found Dr. Parkers name and website “fibroidsecondopinion”. It had so much information and relieved a lot of my anxiety and fears. I set-up a consultation with Dr. Parker and took my brother for support. He was so thorough, he took the time to explain everything to me went over my MRI, all my questions & concerns. Both my brother and I were very impressed and immediately felt that he was the right doctor. Everything went like clockwork from there. His staff is very polite, organized, helpful, kind and in no time at all I was scheduled for surgery. Everything went well and St. John’s Hospital and staff were also great. I came out of surgery and had no pain at all. Dr. Parker had a pain pump on me the 1st week. I flew home the 2nd week and was back to work and at my desk job by the 3rd week.
I could not believe how well everything went. I felt great and was greatly relieved to be rid of my fibroids and still have my uterus. What a difference a great doctor and skilled surgeon can make and someone who knows what they are doing!! Thank You Dr. Parker!
This last year in 2010, I had an ultrasound done and the PA said I needed to go see a specialist they worked with right away as there were some cysts or something on my ovaries, they also wanted me to get some blood tests which was fine but they didn’t explain to me what they were to check for possible ovarian cancer and tumor markers. I about had a heart attack when I looked them up. The specialist of course said the cysts didn’t look good and he couldn’t be sure they were not cancerous without taking them out he said he could try to save one ovary but the one with a larger cyst with need taken out. He side he could do a hysterectomy at the same time if I wanted. I said I did not want that and left scared as I didn’t want to lose either my ovaries or my uterus if I didn’t have to.
I immediately came home and emailed Dr. Parker to get his opinion, he immediately responded back to me. He was so nice and kind and responded to all my concerns. He got a CD copy of my MRI and looked at it along with all my recent records and blood tests and explained everything to me. He relieved my fears about ovarian cancer and said to do a follow-up ultrasound in 3 to 4 months and he would check the ovaries. It was probably a hemorrhagic cyst with are common and usually go away in a few month. I just had my follow-up ultrasound and he again reviewed it for me and the cyst that was there prior is gone. Can you image if I didn’t have Dr. Parker, I would have had unnecessary surgery.
I just can’t thank Dr. Parker enough for all his time, help and what he has done for me and the great care I have received. It is rare to find such a doctor. I feel very blessed to have found him and really appreciate the fact he that he cares about my health. It is so nice to find a doctor that believes in giving good quality care and in preserving a women’s uterus and ovaries, when other doctors unfortunately think it is just easier to take them out and be done with it.
If you are having any fibroid or ovary problems please go see or contact Dr. Parker, he is the best, it’s your health and you deserve the best! I’m so glad I did. 
Thanks you so much Dr. Parker.
Anonymous:
I had a laparoscopic myomectomy done by Dr. Parker in December of 2009. Before I saw him I was scared and confused. Other Drs told me that there is no way to remove my 10 cm fibroid laparoscopically and they suggested to even remove my utures completely. So I researched to find an expert doctor and surgeon for removing fibroids and I found Dr. Parker. Dr parker is very knowledgeable about different options to remove fibroids. He is confident and sincere. He took time to explain all my options and told me with confidence that he can remove my large fibroid with laparoscopically. When I saw him next to set up my surgery date I mentioned to him about my back problem and so in the operating room he made sure I was put in a comfortable position. After I was out of the recovery room he came to visit. During my recovery at home every time I called his office he called me back soon. He did a great suturing job on my cuts. You can hardly see the scars. Dr. Parker is an excellent doctor and surgeon.
L.L. – California:
I was 37 years old when I realized that two fibroids (one around 10 cm and one smaller) were making my day-to-day life impossible. Since fibroids continue growing until menopause, I felt my only option was surgery. I went to four doctors hoping to find one who was willing to perform the surgery laparoscopically. All four doctors informed me that in order to remove the 10cm fibroid, I would have to have a 4-inch bikini incision that involved 3-4 days of hospital stay. Knowing that I wanted to have the surgery done laparoscopically, the fourth doctor (Dr. Michael Johnson at UCLA Medical Center) suggested I make an appointment with Dr. William Parker in Santa Monica. Dr. Parker answered all my questions and addressed all my concerns. He showed me diagrams and explained the procedure in detail. The website is loaded with helpful information. Everyone at Dr. Parker’s office is courteous and supportive. Dr. Parker is a very caring physician and an excellent surgeon. For the first time in years, I feel like I can function normally again; it feels great. I spent one night in the hospital and was on pain medication for only three days.
N.R.:
About a year ago an ultrasound showed that I have a big fibroid in my cervix. One doctor said that the surgery to remove it is needed but I can try for a couple of months to get pregnant with the fibroid. One year later I went for a second opinion and the second doctor told me that I need the surgery right away, and I cannot get pregnant with this fibroid in the way. Both doctors were telling me that because of the location, I would have to have an abdominal surgery with potential loss of the uterus. My friend was researching fibroids online and she stumbled across Dr. Parker’s web site. She contacted him through email, shortly described the situation and asked him if he can do it laporoscopically. He replied the same day that he would need to see an MRI, which we provided the next day. Dr. Parker scheduled an appointment for me for Thursday (2 days after we contacted him via email). He was very caring and accommodating. After looking at the MRI and examining me he said that I do not need an abdominal surgery and he can remove this fibroid via vaginal myomectomy with no harm to the uterus. Two days before my surgery I emailed him with some concerns (it was Sunday), he responded very quickly. He is the most caring, attentive, patient doctor I have ever met. My first appointment, he spend one hour with me and my family answering questions and concerns. He went over the procedure with us, making sure that we are all comfortable with it. Dr. Parker removed my fibroid and one week later I went back to work. I am so grateful that we found Dr. Parker.
Victoria:
I was diagnosed with a dermoid ovarian cyst. Thankfully, I was referred to Dr. Parker by another doctor who is a friend. Before Dr. Parker did surgery, he completely put my mind at ease. He carefully explained everything in detail and his incredible skills both as a physician and a wonderful human being made the surgery an extremely easy procedure. His office staff is totally professional. I cannot say enough about the kind, compassionate care I received from Dr. Parker. He is the best.
Website Comments
Barbara J:
I want to thank you for the most interesting and informative website on fibroids I have seen. The video of the myomectomy was fascinating.
Stephanie B:
As I’ve roamed the internet for information, your website is bar far the most comprehensive, well organized and informative site I have seen. Being from a science background myself, I appreciate all the abstracts and video. You have really shed a positive light on this whole process for me and I feel a lot more comfortable moving forward with my options after reviewing your information here. Thank you.
Anonymous:
I stumbled across your website as I was researching what a 7cm fibroid would look like. I went through the entire site and read every tab. What a relief just to have found you. I have been through 6 doctors since my diagnosis a little over two years ago and they all recommended the same thing: a hysterectomy.
Anonymous:
Thank you so much for your extremely well-organized and informative website. What I love most about your site is that you offer a perspective in easy-to-understand language – you don’t just toss out numbers and facts. That, combined with your history of achievement and highly respectable affiliations, lends much credence to what you have to say. As someone looking for answers, that has been a wonderful blessing and relief.
Marlo P – Germany:
Thank you Dr. Parker for creating this website!
Before my family and I moved to Germany from North Carolina, I was diagnosed with a 1-2 cm posterior fibroid per pelvic exam. Over a year later, it had increased to 4-5 cm per an ultrasound that my German gynecologist performed. Six months after that it had increased to about 7 cm. She told me that laparoscopic hysterectomy was my only option because the fibroid was intramural and would continue to grow until menopause. She did mention that some of her patients had seen a reduction in growth rates with diet and exercise. I believe that because I’m 44 (with no plans to have more children) she was not concerned with offering me other alternatives. After thoroughly reading your website, I have decided to cancel my surgery and talk to my German physician about “watchful waiting” since you commented that smaller fibroids are likely to grow quickly. It may be that my fibroid growth slows or stops now that it is 7 cm. Additionally, I am having no significant symptoms. I have some mild pressure in my lower back with moderate to heavy bleeding for 2 days during my menstrual cycle. It does not seem to affect my quality of life (I take iron during that time). I plan to ask my gynecologist about the option to perform an MRI for a more accurate diagnosis as well.
Thank you again for providing this information for the many women out there, like me, who have been given no serious alternatives to hysterectomy. I hope that I can go without surgery indefinitely or until we return to the states.
Anonymous:
I just wanted to say that the information on your site is fantastic. It’s more comprehensively informative and answers many of the questions that I’ve been unable to get answers to from my GP and consultants over the past 6 years.
Anonymous:
I found your site extremely informative and very helpful. You answered a lot of questions I had about fibroids and various operative procedures.
Anonymous:
First of all thank you very much for the thorough and easily accessible information about fibroid treatments on your website. It is proving an invaluable resource for me and I particularly appreciate your inclusion of references to medical studies which offer the necessary scientific backing required for any serious discussion with a gynecologist.
